Norrie gets nod of approval to lead Roar

Brisbane Roar have named midfielder Ayesha Norrie skipper as the club ushers in a new era in the A-League Women’s competition. 

Norrie, a former Melbourne Victory and Perth Glory player, is embarking on her second stint at the Roar after being at the club from 2013 to 2016.

The 24-year-old takes over a team that has undergone a massive overhaul with vastly experienced internationals Emily Gielnik, Clare Polkinghorne, Tameka Yallop and Kim Carroll all gone from last season’s squad.

Polkinghorne’s absence opened the door for a new captain to be appointed after the veteran Matildas defender had made the role her own over the past decade.

Roar coach Garrath McPherson consulted Polkinghorne before Thursday’s announcement, with Norrie getting the support of her predecessor as the right choice along with Katrina Gorry as vice-captain.

“I spoke to her on the phone yesterday around the decision and picked her brain,” McPherson said.

“I was really pleased to hear too that the people who are sitting next to me were two people that were front of mind for her when asked around people who could could lead the team moving forward and the club.”

Aware of the importance of this season for the Roar following so many high-profile departures, Norrie praised Polkinghorne’s leadership before making it clear she would bring her own leadership style to the club.

“Polks has been captaining for 11 years and obviously it’s big shoes to fill but I’m hoping just to keep it my way as well and lead the team with Mini (Gorry) alongside me,” Norrie said.

“I’m definitely one that obviously leads the field, on and off as well. Feel like I’m an approachable person and that I’m transparent with the girls as well.”

For Gorry, the elevation to the vice-captaincy comes just weeks after she confirmed her return to playing following the birth of  daughter Harper earlier this year.

While it’s unclear if the two-time premiership winner will feature in Saturday’s opening-round fixture against Perth Glory, the 29-year-old was thrilled to provide a link between the old and new eras at the Roar this season.

“It means a lot to me. This is my 10th year in Brisbane and I’m really proud to be a born-and-bred Brisbane player,” Gorry said.

“This is going to be a learning experience for me as well and I’m excited to, kind of, lead this group.”