Sydney FC have announced their first international signing for the 2017/18 W-League season with Portland Thorns defender Emily Sonnett joining the club.

23 year old Sonnett was one of the key pieces of the Thorns championship winning run during the 2017 NWSL season and will partner Matildas centre back in the heart of the Sky Blue defence,

“I’m really looking forward to representing Sydney FC and playing in the W-League for the first time,” she said.

“A couple of my team mates are Aussie and have told me wonderful things about the league, I know Sydney FC are one of the biggest clubs in the competition and I’m excited to be Sky Blue and uphold their proud W-League history.”

Sonnet is a key signing for head coach Ante Juric following the departure of Matildas defender Alanna Kennedy this season who is anticipated to join fellow title contenders Melbourne City.

Sonnett is a fully capped United States of America international and has also represented the U18’s and U23’s sides during her collegiate career.

“Emily is a very good player who already boasts a wealth of experience,” he said.

“I’m expecting Emily to be a key member of our squad and to be able to showcase all her talents this season”.

“I’m looking forward to welcoming Emily into the squad and I’m eager for the season to start now.”

The Sky Blues have also signed talented young duo Taylor Ray and Julia Vignes on scholarship contracts to further bolster the squad ahead of the new season.

Sydney FC kick off their Westfield W-League season at Allianz Stadium against Brisbane Roar this Friday 27 October (kick off 5:20pm) in a Hyundai A-League Westfield W-League double header.