LIANNE WILL BE THORN IN SIDE
FORMER Arsenal forward Lianne Sanderson is set to link-up with England teammate Jodie Taylor at Portland Thorns after the National Women’s Soccer League acquired the rights to her signature.
Having played in the US previously with Boston Breakers, the Massachusetts club traded her rights to Seattle in exchange for a second-round draft pick for the 2016 season.
In turn, Seattle then traded Sanderson to the Thorns as well as their first round pick, for her new club’s first and third round picks.
The 27-year-old, who has won 49 England caps, possesses a green card having already played in the US and therefore will not be required to occupy an international roster spot at Portland.
“Lianne is a bona fide creator with ability to hurt you with a final ball or beat you on the dribble,” said Thorns head coach Paul Riley.
“Having had the pleasure of coaching her before, I understand what she brings both on the field and in the locker room.
“She loves competition, she revels in a great team spirit and her ability with the ball will be a massive plus for us.”