Melbourne City have re-signed Jessica Fishlock and acquired defender Lauren Barnes, on loan, for the 2016/17 W-League season.

The Seattle Reign duo are the first international signings announced for City as they look to defend their 2015/16 W-League premiership and championship double.

29 year old Fishlock returns for her fourth W-League season and second with City, with the midfielder a crucial component of Joe Montemurro's side in Season 9.

Co-captain and Assistant Coach during the season, Fishlock brought plenty of experience and leadership through 11 matches, including two goals, and was rewarded with her second W-League championship.

Meanwhile central defender Lauren Barnes returns to the W-League after a season's absence.  The 27 year old has two W-League stints under her belt after playing 15 matches for Melbourne Victory, including in their 2014 Championship.

With the Seattle Reign, Barnes is a two time NWSL Shield winner and was earlier this year called into camp for the US Women's National Team.  A versatile player, Barnes has the ability to play across the backline or as a defensive midfielder.

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Along with Fishlock and Barnes, Melbourne City have secured the re-signing of Matildas defender Laura Alleway.

“I’m delighted to work with Laura again this season. She played an important role in our success last campaign and her leadership and experience will help us maintain a solid foundation in defence," said head coach Montemurro.

Alleway had another big year with the central defender anchoring the Matildas during their AFC Women's Olympic Qualifiers and during the Rio 2016 Olympics.  In the W-League off-season Alleway played for the Orlando Pride in the NWSL and returns looking for a second W-League championship.

“We’re not going to aim low, we’re going to keep our standards high,” she said. “If we can do it one year then we can do it back to back. Our goal is to get though the first game and then aspire to win every match onwards.”

“I’m stoked to be back. Hopefully we can do what we did last year and come back with another big, big season.”

City begins its W-League title defence against Newcastle Jets at CB Smith Reserve on Sunday 6 November.