Sunderland have signed gifted striker Brooke Chaplen ahead of their first match in the top tier of women’s football.
Newly-promoted Sunderland face reigning champions Liverpool Ladies in the opening game of their WSL 1 season, and they will be hoping their new signing from the blue end of Merseyside can help them cause an upset on Wednesday night.
Brooke Chaplen spent six seasons with Everton Ladies before putting pen to paper at Sunderland, in a move that saw her join a team climbing up the football league at the expense of her former club, who were relegated to the WSL 2.
Chaplen becomes Sunderland’s third major signing following the arrivals of Tori Williams from Doncaster Rovers Belles, and experienced Scotland striker Suzanne Mulvey.
Chaplen said of her move: “I enjoyed my time at Everton and they have made me the player I am today, but it’s brilliant to be joining Sunderland.”
“It’s a great set-up here. I’m now looking forward to being here on a full-time basis and getting stuck in to the season.”
The 25 year-old had already trained a few times with the Black Cats before finalising her deal on Monday.
Head coach Carlton Fairweather said: “We are delighted to have signed Brooke. She is a talented player who has played at the highest level for several seasons.
“She is a valuable addition to the squad and I am looking forward to seeing her impact on the team.”
