Arsenal sign Lionesses star Jodie Taylor from Portland

Thursday 24 Mar 2016
Jodie Taylor scored a hat-trick against Australia in March 2015

Arsenal Ladies have signed England striker Jodie Taylor.

The 29-year-old was a key part of the Lionesses squad that finished third at last summer’s World Cup, scoring in the 2-1 quarter final win over host nation Canada.

Taylor has spent most of her career abroad, but she did help Birmingham City win The FA Women’s Cup in 2012.

Taylor factfile

DOB: 17.05.86
Position: Striker
Caps: 16
Goals: 5
Debut: v Sweden, 03.08.14

She was with Portland Thorns in the American National Women's Soccer League last season, having also enjoyed spells in Australia and Sweden.

Gunners boss Pedro Martinez Losa said: “Jodie is someone that I know well from my time in the United States.

“She is an excellent player, who has been at the top level for many years.

“Her movement off the ball, her ability to work for the team and her ability to score goals will make her a great addition to our team.

“She is a fantastic character too. I am very pleased to welcome her to the club.”

Taylor made her England debut in August 2014, against Sweden and has gone on to score five goals in 16 caps.

The deal is subject to the completion of regulatory processes.

Arsenal opened their 2016 FA WSL 1 campaign with a 3-1 win over newly-promoted Reading on Wednesday night.

By FA Staff