Canberra United have confirmed the signing of Westfield Matildas defender Ellie Carpenter for the upcoming W-League season.
Carpenter recently announced her departure from the Western Sydney Wanderers, who she made 23 appearances for after signing in 2015, and is the second signing announced under Heather Garriock's tenure following Michelle Heyman's re-signing last week.
The defender will be one of a number of Young Matildas to feature in the squad that Garriock hinted at in a recent interview, and said that she is delighted to be a part of the W-League's most successful club for the league's milestone season.
“I am definitely very excited to be heading to Canberra for this season,” she said.
“It is something new and I’m really looking forward to it.”
Garriock, who has worked extensively with Carpenter within the national setup, expressed her excitement at signing Carpenter and having her on board for Season 10.
"I'm very excited to have Ellie on board for the upcoming season,” Garriock said.
“She will bring strength, athleticism and aggression to our defence as well her attacking mindset and overlapping runs.”
"Having worked with her in the Young Matildas, Ellie was someone I really wanted to sign this season, so it's great to have her on board already."
Carpenter also expressed her enthusiasm to continue to work alongside United’s new head coach.
“Being assistant coach of the Young Matildas and involved with the national team, it’s good to be with her, she’s a great coach and I’m looking forward to the season with her,” the 17-year old said.
With a number of Young Matildas slated to come in, the chemistry between those players is something Garriock sees as being a benefit to the whole team.
“I consider Ellie as a Matilda,” she said.
“It will make it a lot easier for the players to gel together having played with one another.
“Some of the young players coming through are exceptional.”
The teenage defender is expected to be announced in Alen Stajcic's Matildas squad this week for the September matches against Brazil, so Canberra United fans can get an early look at our newest signing at the two matches in Penrith and Newcastle.
“I’m looking forward to the games in September,” Carpenter said.
“I think it will be really good to have a few games at home and get the crowds in too.”