Glasgow City ‘excited’ to land South Africa’s Van Wyk

Scotland’s only club in the Champions League, Glasgow City, say they have pulled off “one of the biggest ever signings in Scottish women’s football” by recruiting South Africa captain Janine van Wyk.

The 33-year-old centre-back is South Africa’s most-capped player of all time – of either gender – with 170 appearances, and after leading South Africa to the World Cup in France last summer, became the first woman to captain a South African team at the competition. Previous clubs include Houston Dash from America’s NWSL, as well as JVW FC, the club she founded in 2013 to broaden opportunities for female players in South Africa.

“If we are talking about players who are known across the world, Janine is in that category,” said Glasgow City club manager Laura Montgomery. “Her record is incredible both on and off the pitch in what she has done for girls and women’s sport in her own country, as well as in her promotion of equality.

“Her jersey is on display at the Fifa Museum next to the other top female players in the world. This is the calibre of player and individual that she is. Her footballing CV is very impressive and we are delighted she has chosen to continue her journey with our club.”

Van Wyk – who has been to the past two Olympic Games with South Africa – said: “I am extremely excited to start this new chapter in my career with a football club that is known to be the best team in the Scottish top league.”

Glasgow City face Wolfsburg in the Champions League quarterfinals in San Sebastian on Aug 21.

Head coach Scott Booth added: “We are absolutely delighted to bring Janine van Wyk to our club. She has incredible experience and I feel this will be key for us this season.”