Melbourne Victory have re-signed star striker and Australian international Lisa De Vanna for the upcoming 2014/15 W-League season.
The announcement was made during Melbourne Victory’s season launch this morning, which also saw the club announce their participation in the International Women’s Club Championship in January, which is the team’s first foray into intercontinental competition.
De Vanna has been a household name for women’s football connoisseurs both in Australia and globally, with her immaculate technical ability and deadly finishing making her one of the most exciting footballers Australia has produced.
New head coach Joe Montemurro was quick to praise the character of his newest addition.
“Lisa’s one of the most decorated players in Australian football and we’re happy to have her not only as a player, but as a character,” Montemurro said.
“She’s a great addition to the team so we’re very excited to have her back.
“With over 80 caps for the Matildas, two W-League championships and the honour of 2013 Australian female footballer of the year to her name, she is undoubtedly the most experienced and decorated player on our list.
“Her impact at Melbourne Victory last season was clear for everyone to see, and we couldn’t be more delighted to have her lining up in Victory colours again.”
The signing follow on from the key signature of American midfielder Christine Nairn, who was officially announced as Melbourne Victory’s final international player yesterday afternoon.
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Returning
GK: Brianna Davey
GK: Cassandra Dimovski
DEF: Stephanie Catley
DEF: Emma Checker
DEF: Alex Natoli
DEF: Maika Ruyter-Hooley
MID: Gülcan Koca
MID: Ella Mastrantonio
FWD: Lisa De Vanna
FWD: Tiffany Eliadis
FWD: Beattie Goad
International Signings
DEF: Elli Reed [International, loan from Seattle Reign]
DEF/MID: Lauren Barnes [International, loan from Seattle Reign]
MID: Christine Nairn [International, loan from Washington Spirit]
Domestic Signings
DEF: Hannah Brewer [Signed from Newcastle Jets]
DEF: Gema Simon [Signed from Newcastle Jets]
MID: Amy Jackson [Returns after year absence]
FWD: Racheal Quigley [Signed from Adelaide United]