US superstar Megan Rapinoe to play three games for Sydney FC | (Credit: Twitter) US superstar Megan Rapinoe to play three games for Sydney FC | (Credit: Twitter)

It started with a mid-week teaser by the FFA Girls FC twitter account but by the end of the week it was revealed (well pretty much so) that Sydney FC had signed US midfielder Megan Rapinoe. As is typical of social media, from there on the news quickly spread from Australia to overseas. Not surprising as the 26 year old was involved in one of THE moments of the 2011 FIFA Womens World Cup.

It would surprise many that Rapinoe, who is holidaying in Australia, is not new to the country and in fact has spent the last couple US off-seasons training with the Sky Blues.  This time round however, she will pull on the jumper of last season’s grand finalists.

“I am feeling good about it,” she said. “I have trained with the team for a couple of years now and it will be nice to put on the jersey and have bit of fun.”

“I am not much for training so it will be nice to get out there.”

It’s a nice boost for the star-studded Sydney team who currently have a couple of niggling injuries. Rapinoe joins fellow Americans Estelle Johnson of Philadelphia Independence and Atlanta Beat custodian Alli Lipsher, who arrive at the Season Two champions some time this week.

Although only four years young and not a long season, the Westfield W-League has become a place for American and European players to play during the northern hemisphere winter.

Rapinoe herself had heard a little from Matildas Lydia Williams, Heather Garriock and Sarah Walsh who had all spent time playing in the WPS.

“I don’t think I have played Australia so it will be fun to go up against their best.”

“I love playing games and to be able to come here and get competitive games is great.”

While the midfielder has played at the pinnacle of the game (can anyone forget that World Cup final!) she is still looking forward to playing with Sydney FC and learning a few things.

“I think any time you step on the pitch it is definitely a learning experience,” said Rapinoe.

“The game is definitely different than in the US but I am really looking forward to it.”

This Saturday Sydney FC take on Brisbane Roar in the season opener and replay of last year's grand final.  The match kicks off at 3.00pm (AEDST) and will be broadcast on ABC TV.