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Fran Kirby praises ‘serious’ Brighton club after signing on free transfer – Her Football Hub

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Fran Kirby applauds the fans before the start of the UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 final match between England and Germany on July 31, 2022. (Photo by Harriet Lander/Getty Images)



Brighton and Hove Albion have confirmed the signing of former Chelsea striker Fran Kirby in a sensational summer transfer.

The 31-year-old Lionesses left Kingsmeadow after an iconic nine-year spell in May. Kathryn Batte has reportedly signed a three-year deal with the South Coast club. Kirby joins the Seagulls as a free agent after an emotional exit from Chelsea when her contract expired.

Kirby’s signing statement

The signing of Kirby is a huge statement for a side that finished ninth in the Women’s Super League last season. She arrives with an impressive record including seven WSL titles, five FA Cups and, of course, the European Championship with England in 2022.

Linked with other WSL clubs, including Tottenham and newly promoted Crystal Palace, the 72-times capped international spoke about her decision to join Brighton rather than other clubs.

“You can understand why so many players decide to play for Brighton. I don’t think I’ve ever seen such amazing facilities in women’s football,” Kirby told The Guardian, before describing how the club’s state-of-the-art training facilities were the “green light” for her to sign.

There was also praise for owner Tony Bloom and general manager Paul Barber. Kirby said: “Hearing that they were fully behind the women’s team, I certainly felt like I had to say, ‘yes, okay, this is a serious women’s football club and they want to be taken seriously.'”

Managing Director of Women’s and Girls’ Football Zoe Johnson also highlighted the significance of the signing of Kirby.

“Her experience on the pitch will be just as important off it and we have no doubt she will help us take significant steps towards achieving our long-term goals,” she told the club’s website.

After a difficult past 18 months that has seen four different managers occupy the position on a temporary or permanent basis, Brighton will hope that Kirby’s appointment will prove to be the catalyst for the club to finally realise the potential that has already come to fruition in the men’s side.

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