Scottish Women's Football

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Hearts have signed "complete midfielder" Eilidh Shore on a two-year contract after she left Aberdeen.

The 22-year-old reunites with striker Bayley Hutchison, who has also swapped the Dons for Hearts.

Shore made 145 appearances and scored 47 goals in her five-year spell with Aberdeen.

“We’re delighted Eilidh has made the decision to join us here at Hearts," manager Eva Olid told club media, external.

"I see her as an all-round complete midfielder and again, for our style of play, I think she will thrive in this team.

“Similar to Bayley, I’ve been able to watch her multiple times. In particular, her performance against us last season in Aberdeen was excellent."

Head of recruitment Sean Burt added: “Like Bayley, Eilidh has been a standout now for a few seasons and with that comes a lot of competition for her signature.

"So we’re delighted that she’s chosen Hearts and we feel this is another signing that highlights the positive trajectory of the club."

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Chloe Craig says Celtic have "always had a target on their backs" as they prepare to defend the SWPL title.

Guided by Elena Sadiku, last season's final-day success was the first time the Glasgow outfit have won the league title.

"I feel as if we've always had a target on our back," defender Craig told Sky Sports, external.

"Not everybody sees eye to eye with us and that's fine by us, it just adds fuel for us. We want to keep hold of this trophy and get more.

"No matter what comes our way we know what we can do on the pitch."

Charlotte Cohen
BBC Sport Scotland

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It's just over eight weeks until the new SWPL season gets under way and the fixtures have been revealed.

Reigning champions Celtic begin their title defence at home to Dundee United, who escaped relegation in the play-offs last season.

Runners-up Rangers have a trip to Aberdeen, Glasgow City travel to Montrose and newcomers Queen's Park host Hearts.

But there's plenty more to keep an eye on throughout the season so let's take a look:

Aberdeen v Rangers (11 August)

New Dons boss Colin Bell is thrown in at the deep end for his first competitive game in charge as the new season gets under way. It will be his first taste of Balmoral as his side - having lost three of their longest-serving players in Bayley Hutchison, Eilidh Shore and Jess Broadrick - welcome the cup double winners. Can Aberdeen replace the goals of last season's SWPL top scorer Hutchison following her move to Hearts?

Dundee United v Queen's Park (18 August)

Suzy Shepherd's side escaped relegation after finishing second bottom then beating Kilmarnock in the play-offs last season. Queen's Park eased to the second-tier title by a distance and are back in the top flight for the first time in almost a decade. These two are probably the most closely matched sides going into the new season so it'll be an interesting contest.

Glasgow City v Celtic (18 August)

It was a disappointing season for City last time out. After failing to retain the title, missing out on both cups and a Champions League spot, can Leanne Ross' side bounce back? They come up against reigning champions Celtic in only their second game of the season. It's likely to act as a good gauge for the level City need to reach after they're to get back among the silverware.

Rangers v Celtic - (2 October)

The first Old Firm derby of the new campaign sees the top two of last term look to land an early marker. Although scheduled for 8 September, it will take place a few weeks later on a Wednesday night due to both sides' involvement in the Women's Champions League. While early in the season, it could be one of those games that's looked back on as pivotal in the campaign - depending on who comes out on top.

Hibs v Hearts - (8 September)

Hearts travel to Meadowbank to face a Hibs side who have already nabbed their striker Kathleen McGovern. But it'll also be the first derby for new Hearts signing - and last season's top goalscorer - Bayley Hutchison. Goal fest incoming?

Hearts v Rangers (22 September)

The last time this fixture took place at Oriam, Hearts grabbed their first points against one of the big three sides with a 1-0 victory over Jo Potter's side. They went on to lose their next two meetings to Rangers, including defeat in the Scottish Cup final. But with the addition of Hutchison's goalscoring prowess, Eva Olid will be looking to trouble the Glasgow side again.

You can find all the fixtures for the new SWPL season here

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Newly-promoted Queen's Park will play their home matches at Ochilview in the upcoming SWPL season.

The Spiders played at Lesser Hampden in the SWPL 2 last season but that ground does not meet top-flight criteria.

“We are delighted to be moving to Ochilview for our first season in SPWPL1," head coach Craig Joyce said.

"We will be playing our games at a top facility and look forward to welcoming our fans as well as some of the best players and managers in the country there.”

Head of women's football John McNeil added: "It was clear that once we looked at the grounds criteria for SPWPL 1 we may have to look slightly further afield than Glasgow.

"And when the opportunity presented itself to host our games at an SPFL registered ground, especially one which holds many good memories for the club’s men’s side, it was something we acted quickly upon and looked to secure."

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Bayley Hutchison - last season's SWPL top goalscorer - has joined Hearts following her Aberdeen exit.

The 20-year-old, who netted 28 goals last term and is Hearts boss Eva Olid's first summer recruit, has signed a two-year contract with the option of a further 12 months.

"I’m so happy that Bayley has chosen Hearts as the next step in her career," Olid told club media, external.

"During my first season here, Bayley scored a hat-trick against us, and I remember thinking, ‘Wow, that striker is good’.

"She’s unpredictable, which makes her dangerous. She can drop deep, and she can run in behind. For our game, that versatility is important. She is a clever striker, which is highlighted by the types of goals she scores.

"I’ve always said that we want to dominate opponents and create lots of chances. Having a striker with the numbers that Bayley has is a very exciting prospect."

Head of recruitment Sean Burt said Hearts had to "fend off some serious suitors" to land Hutchison.

He added: "I see this signing as a real statement of intent.

"Bayley is a top, top striker, who finished as the league’s top goalscorer last season and has scored over 100 goals during her time at Aberdeen."

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Aberdeen have appointed ex-South Korea women's boss Colin Bell as the club's new manager.

The former Leicester City player has a lengthy playing and managerial career with numerous highlights that include guiding FFC Frankfurt to the Champions League title in 2015.

"I'm really excited to be here and I’m looking forward to getting down to work," said the new AFC Women’s boss.

"I was searching for a new challenge and I think Aberdeen has huge potential. I want to help build something and be part of the vision the Club has for its women’s programme.

"There is work to do but there are strong foundations to build on and I believe we can achieve real success here."

Director of football Steven Gunn added: "Following a very thorough process, with some top quality candidates, we’re delighted to welcome Colin to Aberdeen.

"He brings a vast amount of experience in women’s football, and his arrival is a sign of our intent for the development of our programme.

"Colin’s immediate priority will be to build the team, promoting emerging talent from the Girls’ Academy and utilising his vast network across the UK and beyond.

"We now look forward to the challenges of the season ahead."

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Bayley Hutchison, Eilidh Shore and Jess Broadrick have left Aberdeen following the expiration of their contracts.

Hutchison was the SWPL's top scorer and the club confirmed the striker will be moving on to pursue a full-time opportunity.

Shore and Broadrick were both offered new deals but have opted to move on after five years with the club.

Nadine Hanssen, Adele Lindbaek, Keely Banfield and Emma Lawson also leave the club following the end of their deals.

The Dons are still in talks with Francesca Ogilvie, Lois Edwards and goalkeeper Jen Currie over new deals.

Charlotte Cohen
BBC Sport Scotland

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Scotland boss Pedro Martinez Losa says his side feel like they can compete against anyone after a strong start to their Euro qualifiers.

The Scots are top of their group after wins against Israel and Slovakia and are guaranteed a spot in the play-offs.

"There’s an aspect of feeling closer and the chance to get better and better," the Spaniard said.

"It’s a challenging time, there’s the risk of injury but also the players are starting to feel what they are achieving.

"As a football player you realise that you previously would not think you could compete against teams like Austria and Belgium or others who were ahead of us in the FIFA ranking.

"Now every time we face these opponents, we have the feeling we can compete and be a better team on the day."

Charlotte Cohen
BBC Sport Scotland

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Pedro Martinez Losa has been speaking to the media after confirming his Scotland squad for their upcoming Euro qualifiers.

Here are the key points from his press conference:

• Says the Scotland players feel "proud" to be part of this national team and did not want the last camp to end.

• Although his side are guaranteed a spot in the play-offs, Martinez Losa insists the job "isn't finished yet" and they are targeting a positive end to the qualifying campaign.

• The women's manager was full of praise for the travelling Tartan Army support in Germany, calling Scotland fans "the best in the world". He is hopeful of doing them proud if they qualify for the tournament in Switzerland next summer.

• Martinez Losa also shared his support for men's boss Steve Clarke and his players after a frustrating Euros campaign, but says it's not his place to comment on the suitability of his counterpart.

• The Spanish manager says it's his side's job to bring "joy" back to Scotland after a disappointing end to the men's campaign.

• Martinez Losa spoke about captain Rachel Corsie and how well her television punditry has been received recently, but says she is now fully focused on captaining the national team.

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Hibs have completed an "invaluable" signing by securing the return of midfielder Kirsten Reilly from Crystal Palace on a pre-contract.

Reilly, who has agreed a two-year deal with Grant Scott's side, helped Hibs to three domestic cup triumphs and a 2019 runners-up finish during her previous 18-month spell.

Reilly, 28, moved on to Bristol City and then Rangers, where she was part of the club's maiden title success in 2022.

She now returns to the SWPL after 35 appearances in two years with Palace, helping them win promotion to the WSL for the first time in their history last season.

"I’m so excited and so glad to be back, I’ve supported Hibs all my life and playing for the badge again is going to feel great," said Reilly.

“The last time I was here, we won a few trophies, and that feeling was really good. It’s our aim to start doing that again."

Head coach Scott is thrilled to work with the midfielder again, adding: "Her talent, experience, and passion for the club makes her an invaluable addition to our squad."

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Josh Henderson will lead St Johnstone into the upcoming SWPL 2 season after being announced as their new manager.

It is the 31-year-old's first managerial role after years of experience in the club's academy set-up.

Henderson also works as football and projects delivery officer with Saints in the Community.

He will be assisted by Stuart McAra and Nathan White, who took charge of the team towards the end of last season following the departure of Kevin Candy.

"I have always wanted to make the move into management and it is a challenge I’m really looking forward to," said Henderson.

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Rangers have signed Southampton forward Katie Wilkinson on a two-year deal.

The 29-year old was Southampton's top scorer last term with 10 goals in 22 appearances, earning a nomination for English Championship player of the season.

She is Rangers' second signing from Southampton this summer following the arrival of Northern Ireland defender Lauren Rafferty.

Wilkinson made her WSL debut as a 17-year-old for Birmingham City before spells with Aston Villa, London Bees, Sheffield United - where she won the Championship's player of the season and Golden Boot two years running - and Coventry.

Across her career the English forward has netted 80 times in 172 games.

Speaking to Rangers' media, Wilkinson said: "I think the ambition is massive here; the club want to win things and that lines up very much with the values that I have.

"I want to win games of football, leagues, and I just hope that I can contribute to the success that the club can have."

Head coach Jo Potter added: "I am delighted to welcome a player with the pedigree of Katie to the club.

"I was fortunate enough to work with her at Coventry, and her impressive goalscoring rate throughout her career is testament to her quality as a player and hunger to improve."

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Kirsty Morrison has extended her Hibs contract for another season.

The forward made her first senior appearance back in 2019 and passed 100 appearance for the Edinburgh outfit last season.

Despite being injured for the first half of the 2023-24 campaign, Morrison scored two goals and offered up five assists.

"I'm thrilled to continue my journey with Hibernian," the attacker said.

"The support from the club and the fans has been great, and I look forward to contributing to the team for the upcoming season.”

"I've been at this club for a long time, so I’m looking forward to another year and looking forward to what that brings."

Manager Grant Scott added: "Securing Kirsty for another year is a testament to her exceptional talent and dedication to the team.

"Her commitment and consistent performances have been invaluable following her return from injury, and we're pleased to have her continue to be a vital part of the squad."

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Striker Kathleen McGovern has crossed the Edinburgh divide with a move from Hearts to Hibs.

McGovern joined Hearts a year ago and scored 11 league goals as Eva Olid's finished third in the SWPL and reached the Scottish Cup final last season.

The forward began her professional career with Celtic and was part of the side that lifted the SWPL Cup in 2021-22.

She also spent time in Germany before returning to Scotland last summer.

"I am delighted to be signing for Hibs," the 21-year-old said, who has agreed a contract until 2026.

"As soon as I spoke to [head coach] Grant [Scott], I knew the correct decision for me was to come here.

"He was really positive about the ambition and where the club is going, which is something that I want to be a part of."

Head coach Grant Scott says McGovern's "talent and forward-thinking play" will be a "great asset" to his side.

He added: "I've followed the progress of Kathleen's career following her breakthrough season at Celtic and admired her play since then.

"We look forward to seeing her linking up with our other forward players and contributing to our success in the seasons to come."

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Eilidh Austin says she's finally "finding her groove" at Rangers after stepping up to the first team.

The 19-year-old defender signed her first professional contract last summer after coming up through the youth system and recently committed her future to Jo Potter's side for the next two campaigns.

"It has been great," she told club media, external.

"I have learned a lot. It has been tough at times but I have enjoyed every minute and I can't wait for that to continue.

"Obviously Jo has a lot of experience being a player herself, I have learned a lot from her and I can't wait for that to carry on.

"Scoring my first goal for the club as well last season was a big moment for me.

"It is a bit of a step up from academy to first team. It took me a couple of months to get into it but now I think I am finding my groove and I am improving all the time."

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Erin Clachers has extended her Glasgow City contract keeping her at Petershill until at least 2027.

The goalkeeper has spent a decade with City having begun her career within the academy and worked her way up to the first team.

"I’m very happy to be extending my time with Glasgow City," Clachers told c, externallub media. , external

"I’ve loved being a part of the club and I’m looking forward to the future."

Head of goalkeeping Jamie Ewings added: "I'm thrilled that Erin has committed her future to Glasgow City with this new contract extension.

"Since I have joined the club, she has shown me what a phenomenally talented goalkeeper she is, along with being an excellent teammate.

"The group of goalkeepers we currently have put us in an extremely strong position, and Erin is a vital part of our group.

"I’m excited to continue working with her to further her development as a player and achieve even more success in the future at City."

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Rangers manager Jo Potter says she's delighted goalkeeper Victoria Esson has committed to another season at the club.

Esson put pen to paper on an extension keeping her at the Glasgow club until next summer.

The 33-year-old joined Rangers in 2022 and has played an important role in their recent cup successes.

"Rangers has been my home for the last few years and I've really enjoyed my two years at the club," the New Zealand international told club media, external.

"It’s a great group of girls, alongside strong coaching staff, and I’m really looking forward to another campaign at Rangers."

Manager Jo Potter added: "Vic has been a hugely influential member of the squad over my time at the club and it is pleasing she has signed an extension until next summer.

"She is part of a highly competitive goalkeeping unit at the club who continue to push each other every day, and I believe her character and temperament will be vital to our ambitions ahead of the upcoming season."

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Hearts' Jenna Penman becomes Motherwell's first signing of the summer.

The Scottish youth international defender joins the Lanarkshire side after two years with the Edinburgh outfit.

Her other accolades include helping Aberdeen to SWPL1 promotion and featuring for Hearts in the Scottish Cup final at Hampden last month.

"I'm delighted to be joining Motherwell," Penman told club media, external.

"When I spoke to Paul Brownlie and Leanne Crichton, it was evident that the ambition and ethos of the club was exactly in line with my ambitions.

"Motherwell is a great place for me to develop and I am very excited to get started."

Manager Brownlie added: "Jenna will bring real quality to our backline.

"She is someone I've known for several years and has caught my eye with some impressive performances against us last season.

"Jenna is a very versatile defender, has real quality in possession but also loves to defend. She's exactly the player I wanted to add to the squad."

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Scotland winger Rachel McLauchlan is ending her "memorable" Rangers career this summer.

The club have confirmed the departure of the 26-year-old, who joined from Glasgow City in January 2021.

McLauchlan helped Rangers to their first SWPL title in her first full season and moves on having lifted the League Cup and Scottish Cup last term.

"The past three years at Rangers has brought me so many moments that I will cherish for the rest of my career," said McLauchlan.

"From breaking new ground with the women’s side by winning the league for the first time, to scoring in the Scottish Cup final just last month, it has been a memorable period in my life.

"I would like to thank all my team-mates who I have shared a dressing room with over the years, as well as all the coaches that I have worked under.

"Most importantly, I would like to express my gratitude towards the supporters who have shown an unwavering support towards me in the past three years, and I wish the club every success for the future."

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Shannon McGregor has declared herself ready to thrive on the pressure at Celtic after her move from Hibs.

The midfielder became the SWPL champions' first summer arrival earlier this month and has since been followed by defenders Amy Richardson and Bruna Lourenco and midfielders Signe and Mathilde Carstens.

Having spent the last seven seasons with Hibs - winning three domestic cups - Celtic fan McGregor, 24, now aims to "challenge myself again" at Elena Sadiku's side.

"Coming to Celtic I know I’ve got competition and I’m looking forward to that," she said.

"I’m extremely excited, I’ve grown up as a Celtic fan my whole life, so I’m really looking forward to it.

"I want to progress myself and challenge myself as a player and as a person again.

“Being in the Champions League and looking to win the league here as well, it’s going to challenge me and that’s what I’m looking to do.

"Any new player is going to have pressure. Even just going into a new changing room is going to be different for me.

"But I want to feel that pressure, I want that pressure to move me forward as a player and as a person."