Melbourne Victory have officially announced the signing of 25-year-old American defender Elli Reed on a loan deal for the upcoming 2014-15 W-League season.
The youth international – who’s won eight caps at under-23 level – comes to Australia with a wealth of playing experience in both the top tier of football in the USA and Germany.
The full-back last started for minor premiers Seattle Reign last Sunday in their WNSL loss to Portland Thorns, with the club also playing home to last season’s title winning W-League players Jess Fishlock and Lauren Barnes.
She also had a spell in the Bundesliga with FCR 2001 Duisburg, and was an integral part of the national team that won the Women’s U-20 World Cup in 2008.
“She’s a technical outside back but she can strike the ball well. She works her butt off too,” said former Melbourne Victory forward Jessica McDonald, who was a teammate of Reed’s at the Reign.
Melbourne Victory coach Joe Montemurro was just as complementary of his new star international.
“Elli Reed is a high-quality player and we’re thrilled to welcome her to the club,” Montemurro said.
“She is a versatile player and I have no doubt she’ll prove to be a great signing as a direct replacement for Jessica Samuelsson on the right side of the pitch.”
Reed -who’ll wear the number 18 – will link up with the squad for their Round 3 clash against Sydney FC, with the American finals series still ongoing.