Amber Tysiak pointed towards West Ham United’s glittering past and promising future as why she opted to join the Barclays Women’s Super League side.
Defender Tysiak has joined the Hammers from Belgian side Oud-Heverlee Leuven, becoming the first recruit of the January transfer window for manager Paul Konchesky.
The Belgian international is excited to begin her career in Claret and Blue and, having watched the Irons closely already this season, is certain she and the Club are a perfect match.
“I’m very excited to sign for West Ham United,” the centre-back told whufc.com. “This is a beautiful Club with a rich history and I’m very happy to be here! I’ve been doing my research, and I know West Ham is a historical, hard-working side that has always had players who work tirelessly for the badge.
“I’ve watched the team play a few times and I can see a group of players who work well together, and fight for the cause together. They always give 100 per cent in every game and I’m looking forward to being a part of that.”
Conversations with Konchesky and general manager Aidan Boxall further proved to Tysiak that West Ham is the right place to continue her own development.
“The chats with Paul and Aidan have been great. Both have told me how excited they are to have me at West Ham, and are looking forward to working with me on my game and having me in the squad. I’m really excited to start my time here.”
In moving to east London, Tysiak moves away from her native Belgium for the first time in her life.
The young defender is relishing the prospect of living in England and testing herself against some of the best players in the world, in the Barclays Women’s Super League.
“Playing in England is going to be a big challenge,” she continued. “There are some big clubs here and English fans live for their football. Playing against teams like Arsenal and Chelsea is going to be an experience. I’m looking forward to each one.”
Not that Tysiak has any fear. The versatile 22-year-old has a proven eye for goal, particularly at international level, and is more than comfortable with the ball at her feet.
Having signed her deal with the Hammers, Tysiak is eager to get down to work on the training pitches at Chadwell Heath, and in games at the Chigwell Construction Stadium.
She added: “I’m a physical player. I have to be, being a centre-back! But I also try to play football. I love to pass the ball and build up the play. I work hard for the team, and like to go in for a tackle, but I do also enjoy building the play and passing the ball with my teammates.
“I can’t wait to get going. We’ve got some big games coming up and hopefully I can be involved.”
