The Vixens are thrilled to announce the signing of Emma Rankin from Blackburn Rovers Ladies.
The winger who played 27 times in Rovers title winning season will join up with the rest of the squad in time for pre-season.
Her playing experience shows the likes of Bradford City Ladies, Leeds United Centre of Excellence and Blackburn Rovers Ladies where she won the FA Women’s Premier League North and also the County Cup.
On signing, Rankin said, “The high aspirations of the club match my own.
“I am looking forward to being on the pitch with players I have played with in the past as well as new. I hope to take a leading role in this dynamic side helping develop young players who play with a passing philosophy and no fear attitude which is how I like to play my football.
“I believe the management will do all they can to support me to achieve my goals this season and help us succeed as a team.
“I have the belief that with a can-do attitude we will go on to do well!”
Manager Glen Preston said: “Today is another statement of our intent.
“It demonstrates our unwavering ambition as a club to ensure we continue to sign some of the best players in the region and move forwards… it’s another great signing for the club.
“My first memory of Rankin was three years ago when I was managing Huddersfield and she was playing for Bradford in a game we won 3-2.
“She ran tirelessly up and down the wing that night and gave my left back such a tough time. It prompted me to do my homework on her as I didn’t know who she was but it was all to no avail as she was moving abroad to teach for a year or so, and so I missed out.
“A year or so later I heard she was back but we were once again pipped at the post by Blackburn Rovers so this time we had to work harder than ever to try and ensure we didn’t miss out on her a third time!
“She will give the side pace, composure and variation. Above all that she’s a proven winner, having won the FA Women’s Premier League last season so we are getting a player with great experience and I’m really looking forward to working with her this season.”