Evie eager to get going

Evie Smith is excited to be a Rover as she becomes Gemma Donnelly’s first signing of the summer.

The 19-year-old has put pen-to-paper on a pro-deal ahead of the 2022-23 Barclays Women’s Championship season and she can’t wait to get going.

Reflecting on signing, Smith said: “I’m delighted and excited to be here.

“It’s a good opportunity for me and I can’t wait to get going.”

Smith makes the switch from Liverpool where she had spent eight years with the Reds. The full-back had progressed through the club’s Academy before making the step-up to the first-team last summer but injuries forced her to miss the entire season, so she is now looking forward to finally making her mark in the Championship.

“I’m excited for the challenge,” she shared

“Last season was quite tough for me with injuries so I’m looking forward to pushing on and I know I’ll learn and grow as a player.”

Smith has been training with her new teammates since the start of pre-season and she says she already feels at home.

The youngster said: “I’ve loved it here so far, the girls and staff have been so nice and welcoming.

“It’s felt like home since the minute I stepped in here.”

The defender also shares what fans can expect from her next season.

“As a full-back, I’m young and energetic,” Smith said.

“I like to get high up the pitch and hopefully I’m exciting for the supporters to watch.”