Leeds United Ladies FC have announced the signing of England U23 striker Carla Cantrell from local rivals Doncaster Rovers Belles.

Carla has scored goals consistently in the FA Women’s National Premier league for the past two seasons and has been regularly involved in England U23 squads and has also had a full England call up to a training camp.

Leeds Met Carnegie student Carla becomes the first of the summer signings by Rick Passmoor as Leeds United Ladies aim to improve on last seasons highest ever league position of third in the FA Women’s Premier League.

Carla will also be taking up the new Leeds United Ladies scholarship programme at Leeds Metropolitan University for her third and final year at the University along with several other first team players from the club who are undertaking their first year at the University under the new Leeds United Ladies scholarship programme, part of the football club’s ongoing partnership with Leeds Met Carnegie.

Carla commented: “I’m really pleased to have signed for Leeds United Ladies.  It felt like the time had come for a fresh challenge and I know I’m joining an ambitious club who are looking to challenge for trophies in the coming few seasons. I know quite a few of the players through England and I am looking forward to playing alongside them, they have some very talented players who are young and ambitious.

“I have come here to develop and improve as a footballer with Leeds and I’m looking forward to linking up with the players and getting ready for the new season, I would love to push on further at International level and if I perform well for Leeds then who knows.”

Manager Rick Passmoor added: “I've been working throughout the back end of the season and close season to identify talented new players who would improve our team on the pitch and be a role model for the club off the pitch. 

“Everyone knew of my desire to improve the team with certain individuals and I am very pleased with the first signing of the summer, Carla Cantrell. I have been a long term admirer of her ability from a young age when she used to play junior football in the Doncaster area and then onto the national premier league arena with Belles.

“We know where we need to strengthen the squad and Carla Cantrell fits the bill. I have no doubt she will be an instant hit with the supporters and her fellow players.”