Everton Women striker, Claire Emslie has sealed a permanent switch from Orlando Pride after signing a 18-month contract.
Having initially joined on loan due to the abandonment of 2020 NWSL regular season in America, Emslie has extended her stay with the Toffees until at least June 2022.
Despite having scored just twice in eight appearances of which both goals came in a 6-0 away win at Aston Villa, Emslie has spoken to evertonfc.com of how “excited” she is to stay at the club on a permanent deal.
Emslie also spoke of her enjoyment of playing under Willie Kirk and the club’s plans, saying; “I’ve really enjoyed my football here at the Club so far.
“I believe in the Club’s plans and ambitions and I want to be part of the team achieving those goals.”
Everton Women’s manager, Kirk has described sealing Emslie’s permanent transfer as “a really important signing for us.”
This isn’t the first time that Emslie hasn’t played under Kirk after previously playing under his management at Bristol City then Hibernian, where they won the Scottish League Cup together in 2011.
Speaking on Emslie’s work ethic, Kirk said; “She is a very, very hard worker, is two-footed, creative and versatile enough to be able to play anywhere across the front three.
Emslie’s season however has been impacted by what Kirk described as “a frustrating injury,” but he believes that she will be a positive signing, saying; “I have no doubt she will prove to be key signing for us in the long-term.”
Emslie’s transfer is another key festive signing after Everton tied down Kirk to a new contract, keeping him at the club until June 2023 as manager of the Women’s team.
Everton currently sit fifth in the Women’s Super League after taking just two points from their last five matches, yet find themselves just 12 points off league leaders – Manchester United with a game in hand.
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