Reading and England legend moves to south coast after glittering Chelsea stay

Reading and England legend Fran Kirby has made a shock move from Women's Super League giants Chelsea to Brighton and Hove Albion.

Kirby, born and raised in Reading, burst onto the scene with her childhood club and scored an incredible 71 goals in 46 appearances.

In 2015, the Royals were unable to prevent the bigger clubs from sniffing around and Chelsea paid a reported British record to take her to Stamford Bridge.

Spending almost a decade in West London, the creative star racked up over 200 appearances and repeatedly had to extend her trophy cabinet for the trophies won.

The 31-year-old won seven WSL titles, five Women’s FA Cups and two Women’s League Cups, as well as helping the Blues reach the 2021 UEFA Women’s Champions League final.

With 72 caps for England, Kirby's name will forever go down in history as being part of the Lionesses team to win the 2022 European Championships.

e are pleased to confirm the signing of England international Fran Kirby.

Managing Director of Women’s and Girls’ Football at Brighton, Zoe Johnson, told the club website: “We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Fran to the club.

“She arrives as one of the most decorated English footballers of all time, playing an integral role in Chelsea’s recent dominance, as well as on the international stage having been a part of England’s EURO 2022 win.

“Her experience on the pitch will be just as important off it and we have no doubt that she will help us take a significant step towards our long-term targets.”