In a huge coup for the Newcastle Jets, Westfield Matildas playmaker Emily van Egmond has returned to the club for the upcoming Westfield W-League season.
Van Egmond is on loan in the Hunter from Orlando Pride, where she recently completed an excellent campaign in America's NWSL competition.
The 25-year-old was one of the Jets' best players last season, helping the club to a drought-breaking appearance in the Semi-Finals.
“I feel refreshed and ready to go,” van Egmond said on Thursday.
“Last season was massive for our squad, with the success we had on the pitch and the way the Jets took care of us off the pitch.
“Our training base at No.2 Sportsground, the crowds to all of our home games to have the football community embrace the team the way they did was special.
“I love being pack in Newcastle and playing with the Jets, I’ve settled right back in after being away and can’t wait to get back out on the pitch for our first game in just over a month.”
With a young and exciting squad at his disposal, Jets boss Craig Deans said van Egmond’s experience would again prove crucial for his side to repeat last season's success.
“We’ve got a strong group of senior players to lead our squad again this season and Em is at the forefront of that,” Deans said.
“She’s a special player who has competed at the highest level for the best part of a decade, Em has a presence both on the pitch and in training that lifts our entire group.
“It’s been a big couple of years for Em between national team duties and playing in domestic competitions across the world, we’ve given her an extended break to ensure she’s fresh and ready for 2018/19.”
Van Egmond has played 48 games for the Jets in the Westfield W-League and is set to bring up her half-century milestone in the club's Round 2 clash with Melbourne Victory.