Arsenal sign an Australian star of their own as Caitlin Foord arrives to give them boost in title race

Arsenal capped off the Women’s Super League transfer window with their very own Australian coup, by announcing the signing of Caitlin Foord.

Following hints on their social media, Arsenal finally revealed the identity of their late signing on Friday morning, the day after the January deadline.

Foord follows three compatriots who have also migrated to the WSL this month – Chelsea’s star signing, Sam Kerr, Hayley Raso (Everton) and Chloe Logarzo (Bristol City).

Foord, 25, made headlines in 2011 when, aged 16, she became the youngest Australian to play at the World Cup. She has since accumulated 77 caps and makes the move from Sydney FC, where she began her career and won the W-League championship last season.

She also featured for the Portland Thorns over the summer in the North American league and has previously had stints at Sky Blue and Perth Glory.

Though the transfer fee and length of her contract are yet to be disclosed, the deal had been speculated for weeks and Foord joins the champions just as the title race is heating up.

Following a crushing 4-1 loss at home to Chelsea last week, Arsenal are only just clinging to the top two positions. They sit behind leaders Manchester City on goal difference and a point ahead of Chelsea, who have a game in hand.

An injection of Australian talent is just what they need, according to Foord’s compatriot Joe Montemurro, the Arsenal head coach.

“I’m very pleased that Caitlin has joined us,” Montemurro said. “I have watched her growth in the W-League and she is versatile and a great character. We are excited to welcome her.”

Foord will not make the move for a couple of weeks, as she remains on international duty for three Olympic qualifying fixtures.