Newcastle Jets have announced the signing of Arin Wright (Nee Gilliland) for the remainder of the Westfield W-League 2018/19 season.
The American midfielder links up with Novocastrians for her third season and will be available for selection in Thursday night’s clash with Brisbane Roar.
Wright was married in October and recently made contact with Jets’ boss Craig Deans to express her desire to return.
“I absolutely love Newcastle and couldn’t wait to get back,” she told the club’s official website.
“I’ve been on Deansy’s case for a few weeks now and I’m so appreciative that the club has been able to make this possible.
“We [Red Stars] had a strong season in the NWSL making the playoffs and after a longer break than usual I’m feeling fit and refreshed.
“The girls have had a great start to the season and I was just itching to get out here, now it’s just time to get into training and get started.”
She's baaaack! And it just feels Wright ? #MadeOfNewcastle
? https://t.co/aVGs0RCodI pic.twitter.com/TMcko4A7lj— NEWCASTLE JETS FC ✈️ (@NewcastleJetsFC) November 27, 2018
Newcastle boss Deans told the club’s official website that a move back for Wright did not appear on the cards.
But after returning four rounds into the Westfield W-League campaign, Deans hailed her addition as a big bonus for the club’s title tilt.
“To be honest, we were never expecting Arin to be here this season,” Deans said.
“Initially she [Wright] was the one driving it, hurrying me along to get a deal done because she couldn’t wait to get back to Newcastle.
“She loves the town, loves the team and she’s a huge inclusion for us for the remainder of the season.
“Everyone has seen what she can offer on the pitch, with her speed, athleticism and presence on the ball – she’s a great personality to have around the group and we’re all really happy to have her back.”