West Ham United women are delighted to confirm that defender Gilly Flaherty has been named as captain.
Striker Jane Ross will serve as the women’s vice-captain for the 2018/19 FA Women’s Super League season.
“It is a pleasure and an honour to be asked to serve as West Ham United captain,” Flaherty told whufc.com. “I was just thinking about coming to West Ham for a fresh start and helping the club, so the asked to take the captain role is really special for me.
“I had spells at Arsenal with the armband and then at Chelsea I was officially the vice-captain. For me, I feel like I’m ready and I’m at the right level to take this responsibility. It is truly a special moment for me and I can’t wait to lead the team out.”
It is a pleasure and an honour to be asked to serve as West Ham United captain...It is truly a special moment for me and I can’t wait to lead the team out
Gilly Flaherty
The 26-year-old has previous experience of wearing the armband, having captained Arsenal on occasion and also serving as Chelsea’s vice-captain during her spell with the Blues.
Having made the step up to full captain for the Irons, Flaherty is relishing the responsibility of serving the team in the role and is eager to help her teammates in any way she can.
“As a captain, you do a lot more than I initially realised,” Flaherty continued. “You’re a go-between for the coaches and the players, and if there’s any issues or questions then it tends to come to me.
“It’s about making sure that everyone is on the same page and that there are no issues. When I come in, I always say hello to everyone and try to keep the energy levels up. I’m there for everyone, if they need me.”
Flaherty’s first official game as captain will come this Sunday as the women kick off their 2018/19 season with a Continental Cup contest away to holders Arsenal.
The centre-back is looking forward to the test of taking on her former side and is looking forward to the fixture, saying West Ham will be taking the competition very serious.
“I think the Continental Cup is one that you will see a lot of surprises in. We recognise this as a prestigious tournament and a chance for silverware.
“The main aim for us right now is to qualify from the group. We will take it game by game, starting with Arsenal.”
*Season Tickets for West Ham United's first season in the Women’s Super League are now on sale, starting from just £15!
Come and enjoy the top tier of the women's game at Rush Green with the Hammers this season. Pick up your Season Ticket from the link here!
