Wellington Phoenix captain and decorated Football Ferns midfielder Annalie Longo has re-signed for the 2024-25 Ninja A-League season.
Described as a “major coup” for Wellington, Longo is back for more after helping the Phoenix to their highest finish in the club’s Ninja A-League history last term.
The 33-year-old New Zealand international made her long-awaited debut in November and capped the bow with a goal before going on to play a further 12 games prior to an Achilles injury that cut short her season.
Click here to secure your Unite Round tickets NOW!
“That was one of the big reasons why I wanted to return to the Phoenix because there have obviously been some great foundations laid over the last three seasons and unfortunately last season I was a little bit hampered with a niggly injury,” Longo said.
“I’m really excited to be part of the group again. We learnt a lot last season and I think everybody is really looking forward to getting back together and having a really good pre-season and trying to create a bit of history for the club.”
Longo, who featured at her fourth Olympics at this year’s Paris Games, added: “(Head coach) Paul (Temple) has done a really good job and now the key is to evolve our environment so people can continue to thrive.
“My job as captain and one of the leaders in the team is to ensure we create that good environment so players are continuing to enjoy their football and want to represent the club well.
“That’s the first priority and hopefully on the back of that you’ll see some good performances and some players really stand-up and get national team call-ups.”
‘A GAME CHANGER’: Wellington Phoenix & New Zealand Football join forces to support Kiwi talent
The Phoenix will begin season 2024-25 with a trip to Western United on November 1.
Wellington have been busy in the off-season, signing Carolina Vilão, Olivia Fergusson, Aimee Danieli (scholarship contract), Ella McMillan (scholarship contract), Ela Jerez (scholarship contract), Ella McCann (scholarship contract), Grace Jale and Maya McCutcheon.
Paul Temple’s Phoenix have also re-signed Rebecca Lake, Emma Main, Tiana Jaber, Alyssa Whinham, Olivia Ingham and Daisy Brazendale.
2024-25 FIXTURE RELEASE – EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW
FULL FIXTURE: 2024-25 Ninja A-League Women season released – every match here
TALKING POINTS: More free-to-air games, a New Year’s Eve party & more
DERBY DAYS & KEY DATES: The biggest Ninja A-League Women matches to put in your diary
FINALS SERIES: 2024-25 Ninja A-League Women finals structure and dates
“Last season Annalie really stood up as a leader within the group despite having to battle with a few frustrating injuries that restricted her gametime,” Temple said.
“She is a greatly appreciated, respected and valuable member of the team, and she’s such a smart footballer, good person and great role model.
“I think there is an element of unfinished business for Annalie. Her mentality is still strong and she’s passionate about the style of football we play.
“And on top of her leadership Annalie is a great player in her own right. In my opinion she is one of the very best New Zealand has ever produced in the women’s game.”
