Jodie Taylor: Arsenal Ladies sign England striker from Portland Thorns

Jodie Taylor was a key player for England at the World Cup

Arsenal Ladies have signed England international Jodie Taylor from American National Women's Soccer League side Portland Thorns.

Striker Taylor, 29, featured in last summer's World Cup, scoring England's opening goal in their quarter-final victory over hosts Canada.

"Jodie is someone I know well from my time in the United States," said Arsenal boss Pedro Martinez Losa.

"She is an excellent player who has been at the top level for many years."

Birkenhead-born Taylor returns to England having previously played in the FA Woman's Super League for Lincoln Ladies and Birmingham City.

She won the Women's FA Cup with Birmingham in 2012 and has also had spells playing in Australia and Sweden.

"Her movement off the ball, her ability to work for the team and her ability to score goals will make her a great addition to our team," added Losa, who spent two years as a coach at Western New York Flash.

"She is a fantastic character too. I am very pleased to welcome her to the club."