Derby County Women have bolstered their squad ahead of the 2024/25 season with four additions.
After a historic FA Women’s National League Plate winning campaign in 2023/24, Sam Griffiths is hoping new blood can see the Ewes progress further in the league, after they Ewes finished seventh in the FA Women’s National League Northern Premier Division.
The new signings have bedded into the squad already, after taking opportunities to shine in pre-season friendlies against Peterborough United and Doncaster Rovers Belles.
Meet The New Recruits
Lucy Jones – Goalkeeper
Jones has linked up with Derby from Birmingham City and will bolster options between the sticks, alongside the Ewes’ experienced shot-stopper Sarah Morgan. After playing for West Bromwich Albion on a dual registration last season, Jones has FA Women’s National League experience.
Paris Dalton – Midfielder
Derby-born Dalton joins the club after five years playing in the American college system, plying her trade for Landau Forte College and the University of New Mexico. The midfielder was on the books of the Ewes at Under-10s level but joined Birmingham City before heading across the Atlantic.
Lara Miller – Midfielder
Miller has made the switch to Derby after a season with league rivals Burnley last term. The defensive midfielder has Championship experience too, previously on the books at Lewes and Sheffield United.
Kate Oakley – Forward
Oakley has linked up with the Ewes to add another attacking outlet to Griffiths’ ranks. The striker headed north to sign on the dotted line after a season with Lewes in the Championship - she also rose through the ranks at Academy level for Liverpool.
The new additions will be hoping to make an impact when Derby begin the 2024/25 campaign with an away trip to Sporting Khalsa on Sunday 18th August, while their first home tie will see a clash with Wolverhampton Wanderers a week later, on Sunday 25th August at the Don Amott Arena.