Tuesday 26 June 2018

Liverpool's rebuild begins with Leighanne Robe

Since the end of the 2017/18 Women's Super League season no fewer than nine first team players have departed Liverpool along with manager Scott Rogers.

For supporters of the Reds each departure was a blow. Following a brief respite, as Neil Redfern was announced as Scott's replacement and news trickled through of a positive fan panel, came the knock out - long serving captain Gemma Bonner had also left.

Social media over the last few weeks has been a minefield, with disappointed supporters at every turn. From loyal fans of the club there was nothing but well wishes for those moving on, bittersweet though it may have been.

Today however marks the start of a new era at Liverpool. The first signing of Neil's reign announced as Millwall captain Leighanne Robe, an experienced 24-year old centre half who has also spent time at Arsenal and Watford.



Having not seen much of Leighanne on the pitch, my first thought and port of call was Millwall supporter Dion Farnes, who has seen the majority of their games over the last few years, to get the low down on our number three and all the important stats - such as her first goal for Millwall coming against none other than Everton! You can watch and enjoy that header here - Leighanne goal against Everton.

For the Lionesses Leighanne made 42 appearances, scoring twice. She started each of those games without being subbed off and only missed two games during her time in London.

With the Reds needing clear reinforcements across the field, supporters will be happy to hear that Leighanne is "a solid, reliable and consistent player" who "reads the game very well", "loves a tackle and physically strong, rarely injured and has great stamina".

Dion says that the centre half is usually the first name on the team sheet, a dead ball specialist and a player that stands out on the pitch. 

Added to Neil's comments that Leighanne is comfortable in any position along the back line and a real leader on the pitch, Liverpool are certainly moving in the right direction and look to have bagged a real coup.

Welcome to Liverpool, Leighanne! Up the Reds.