Beth England’s Tottenham move can resurrect her career as well as struggling Spurs’ season

Tottenham Hotspur Women have confirmed the signing of forward Beth England from Chelsea in what is believed to be a British transfer record move.

The Lionesses star, a non-playing member of the squad that won last summer’s European Championship, has joined in a reported £250,000 three-year deal, eclipsing the £200,000 Chelsea paid Manchester United for Lauren James in 2021.

“My next chapter. I’m so excited to join Spurs Women,” England tweeted. “Buzzing to meet up with the girls and get started at this great club. Let’s write some history together!

“It has been the biggest honour to play for this amazing club that has been my home for the past seven years,” she added. “Every time I’ve stepped out onto the pitch I’ve given my all for Chelsea and our incredible fans. I’m so proud to have played my part in the success we have achieved over the years.”

Blues boss Emma Hayes, under whom she won four Women’s Super League titles, two FA Cups and a League Cup, described her a “Chelsea legend” who had “given tremendous service to the club”. England was at Kingsmeadow for seven years, scoring 74 goals in 164 appearances.

However, she faces a very different climate at struggling Tottenham. Eighth in the WSL, their hopes of European football are in tatters and England joins an attack under heavy scrutiny – only Everton and rock-bottom Leicester have scored fewer goals.

More from Football

David Gold, West Ham joint chairman dies aged 86 after short illness04 January, 2023David de Gea wants to commit to Ten Hag's Man Utd revolution despite stalemate over new deal04 January, 2023Why Arsenal didn't get a penalty against Newcastle despite Arteta's fury at 'scandalous' calls04 January, 2023

Ashleigh Neville and Drew Spence have carried much of that burden, not least because of Kit Graham, Ellie Brazil and Kiyah Simon’s injuries. Polish international Nikola Karczewska, who signed last summer, has scored just one WSL goal, while Rosella Ayane has only recently returned.

That means England is likely to slot straight into the starting XI when Spurs resume their season away to Aston Villa on 14 January. She was unable to break into a Chelsea front three dominated by Fran Kirby, Guro Reiten and Sam Kerr, but a move across London will allow herself to force her way back into Sarina Wiegman’s plans ahead of the Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand this summer.

It won’t be easy, with Ellen White’s retirement opening the door to Ebony Salmon, James and Jess Park to try and revitalise the Lionesses’ attack, but England has given herself the best possible chance with a move that needed to happen for the sake of her international career.

from Football - inews.co.uk https://ift.tt/nyFCeX3