US World Cup winner Heather O'Reilly joins Arsenal Ladies as she hails Gunners' 'tradition of excellence'

Arsenal Ladies today announced the signing of former USA midfielder Heather O’Reilly in time for the 2017 Women’s Super League Spring Series.

The 32-year-old, her country’s eighth most capped player with 231 caps and 47 goals to her name, retired from international duty last year having won the 2015 World Cup and three Olympics golds.

O’Reilly said: “Having come over to Arsenal last year to train, I was very impressed with the club.

“The facilities are world class and they have a tradition of excellence at the club that I wanted to be a part of, I'm very happy to be here.”

Arsenal finished third in the WSL last season, some distance short of champions Manchester City, but secured the FA Cup with victory over arch-rivals Chelsea at Wembley.

“She is a world class player and one of the most respected players in the US,” Gunners boss Pedro Martinez Losa said. Her determination and character will make a big difference for this club.

“She will bring here a legacy of values, hard work and professionalism which will also help our young players to develop. It is a privilege for us to be able to bring her to Arsenal Ladies.”

O’Reilly becomes the second US international to join a WSL side this winter, Crystal Dunn having signed for Chelsea Ladies earlier in January. Their fellow World Cup winner Alex Morgan has also made the move to Europe, joining Lyon on a six-month loan deal.