Arsenal are set for a major boost in firepower heading into the final furlong of the season, with former England striker Jodie Taylor making a surprise return to north London on a free transfer after ending her spell in North America.
The 36-year-old, who scored 19 goals across 51 appearances for England, returns to Arsenal for her second spell with the Gunners having signed a short-term deal until the end of the season.
The move comes after the expiration of her contract with National Women’s Super League side San Diego Wave. The former UWCL winner found the back of the net once in nine appearances for the American-based franchise.
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Taylor scored 10 goals in 17 appearances for Arsenal between 2016 and 2017, a remarkable show of goalscoring prowess that extended seamlessly into her international career as she claimed England’s first-choice forward berth and the Golden Boot at the 2017 Women’s Euros, scoring five goals before the Lionesses’ run was ended by Sarina Wiegman’s Netherlands in the semi-finals.
That the Birkenhead-born forward’s best run of form coincided with her two years at Arsenal will be a sliver of history supporters hope repeats itself imminently. The Gunners are cresting into a tough run of fixtures in pursuit of domestic and European glory without top goalscorers Vivianne Miedema and Beth Mead due to injury.
Welcome back to The Arsenal, Jodie
— Arsenal Women (@ArsenalWFC)
“It feels amazing to be back – like I never left,” Taylor told Arsenal’s media team. “It’s incredible to have this opportunity to come back to the club that I love so much.
“A lot of progression has happened here in the last five years since I was last here and to see how much the club has grown and progressed is incredible. I’m very happy to be here.”
Arsenal attempted to pry England forward Alessia Russo away from title rivals Manchester United on deadline day in a bid to bolster the depleted forward line but failed with a record bid.
Swedish forward Stina Blackstenius has impressed in recent weeks, scoring in the Conti Cup final win over Chelsea, but needs support with the hectic schedule.
Taylor first burst onto the scene over a decade ago at Birmingham City, winning the 2012 FA Cup final against Chelsea and scoring in the shoot-out, before moving on to Arsenal after spells in Australia and the USA.
On Taylor’s signing, head coach Jonas Eidevall expressed his delight at the experience she brings. “She has a proven track record for scoring goals and we know her experience will be a great asset to the whole dressing room,” he said.
“We have so much to fight for this season and Jodie will help us on that journey.”
Head of Women’s Football Clare Wheatley added: “Jodie is a really experienced and talented player and will give us added competition at this crucial stage of the season. We’re delighted to bring her back to the club and all have great memories of working with her in her previous spell here.”
The deal is subject to the completion of regulatory processes.
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