Matildas midfielder Chloe Logarzo has returned to Western United just in time for their push for Liberty A-League silverware, signing on a permanent deal until the end of next season.
Logarzo left Western at the conclusion of her loan deal in February, returning to parent club Kansas City Current ahead of the 2023 National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) season.
However, after being released by Kansas City, she has since re-joined the Liberty A-League’s pacesetters as a free agent until the end of the 2023-24 season on a permanent deal.
The 28-year-old – who was vice-captain during her initial stint – made six appearances at Western, scoring three goals, including a stunning brace against Melbourne City in December but was limited due to a niggling foot injury.
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“I’m extremely excited to re-join the girls and the Western United fans. I feel very blessed that the team are here to support me in any and every way possible,” she said.
“The girls have been doing an incredible job and I’m looking forward to supporting and driving the team to get the very best out of every single person.”
The 49-time Matilda’s return to Western – and full fitness – keeps her hopes alive of being part of Australia’s squad for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Logarzo was last selected for a friendly against South Africa in October last year, where she came on as a substitute. She has previously represented Australia at the 2019 World Cup, 2016 and 2020 Olympic Games and the 2018 AFC Women’s Asian Cup.
The midfielder also won two Liberty A-League Championships with Sydney FC in 2013 and 2019 – while also spending time at Newcastle Jets.
Western head coach coach Mark Torcaso believes Logarzo’s return will provide a significant boost to the side heading into finals and beyond.
“Chloe coming back is immensely exciting for us and will provide everyone with a big lift heading into the final weeks of this season,” he said.
“Everyone knows her talent, but Chloe’s leadership and contribution to our team culture was above and beyond what I or any of our staff could have expected.
“That’s why it is so important to have her back for what’s left of this season and also heading into next year. We want to continue setting high standards for our program and Chloe being here will certainly help us do just that.”
Logarzo will return to Australia next week and will look to push her claim for selection ahead of finals.
Western currently sit two points clear atop the A-League Women’s standings and are the only team to book their place in the finals series which kicks off in April.
They finish their season with home clashes against Canberra United this Saturday, and Western Sydney Wanderers on April 1.
