Melbourne Victory has confirmed the signings of foundation Newcastle Jets players Gema Simon and Hannah Brewer ahead of its Westfield W-League title defence.
Simon joins Victory after a season where she captained the Jets and was named the club’s player of the year for the second time, playing every minute of every match for the second consecutive season.
The versatile 24-year-old midfielder made her Matildas debut during the Cyprus Cup in March, but missed out on selection for the Asian Cup after straining an adductor muscle on the final day of the training camp.
Brewer, 21, was the Jets’ vice-captain last season and made her Matildas debut at the Cyprus Cup.
The consistent defender claimed the Jets’ player of the year award for the 2012/2013 season.
Victory coach Joe Montemurro said the pair, who have made more than 90 Westfield W-League appearances between them, would be valuable additions to the squad.
“I wish to welcome Gema [Simon] and Hannah [Brewer] to Melbourne Victory,” Montemurro said.
“They are fantastic additions to the squad both as footballers and great characters. They are modern players with versatility that adapt to any situation.
“Their positive and hardworking nature will see them adapt and settle in well.”
The arrivals of Simon and Brewer follow the re-signings of championship players Cassie Dimovski, Maika Ruyter-Hooley and Ella Mastrantonio.
Star player Jessica Fishlock will not return to Melbourne after signing with German champion 1. FFC Frankfurt. The Wales captain has a need to stay closer to home.
With the start of the 2014/2015 Westfield W-League season brought forward to September 13, right-back Jessica Samuelsson won’t return to Victory because of her commitments with Swedish club Linkopings FC.
More changes to the playing roster will be announced in coming days.
Melbourne Victory begins its title defence away to Newcastle Jets on September 13 at 11am AEST.
For all the latest news on the Melbourne Victory W-League team, follow the official Facebook and Twitter (@victorywleague) accounts.
