Season 8 grand finalist Sydney FC have announced their 2016/17 squad with Matildas star Caitlin Foord a headline name to return to the Sky Blues.

The 21 year old returns to her hometown club after two seasons with Perth Glory where she was a part of their 2014/15 premiership side.

“I’m really excited to be back home and can’t wait to put the Sky Blue jersey on again,” Foord said. “My family love to watch me play and I love having them in the crowd so being back in Sydney FC colours gives them the chance to watch and support me.

“I’m as hungry as ever to take out the title this year and I think the environment at Sydney FC is perfect for winning silverware.”

https://twitter.com/CaitlinFoord/status/775606452085850112

Foord was a part of the Sydney FC's 2010/11 Premiership and 2012/13 Championship teams and head coach Dan Barrett hopes her inclusion will be the catalyst for the Sky Blues to go one step further in Season 9.

“Caitlin was our major target in the off season,” Barrett said. “She is pivotal to how we play, I have looked to put together a squad with real versatility and Caitlin gives us this by being able to make an impact in more than one role.

“Of all the great players that we played against in last season's W-League, both locally and abroad, Caitlin was the player I feared playing against the most."

Sydney have also been bolstered by the signing of fullback Georgia Yeoman-Dale who makes the move from the Newcastle Jets after two seasons. Meanwhile 2x FIFA Women's World Cup participant Servet Uzunlar returns to the W-League after sitting out the 2015/16 season.

Uzunlar adds depth to an experienced squad that includes Rio Olympics squad members Kyah Simon and Alanna Kennedy.

“I'm very excited about the squad for this season,” Barrett said.

“We have ticked all the boxes regarding meeting our objectives of depth and versatility. We have added and welcomed back quality players, many of whom can play and contribute in more than one role."

“The depth is key not only for cover but it adds that real competition for starting places each week.

Barrett has yet to complete his squad with 4 players still to be finalised including a number of internationals.

Sydney FC are on the road in their opening match taking on long time rival Brisbane Roar at Dunmore Park on Saturday 5 November.

W-League 2016/17 Squad:

1. Shamiran KHAMIS, 2. Teresa POLIAS, 4. Elizabeth RALSTON, 6. Servet UZUNLAR, 7. Nicola BOLGER, 9. Caitlin FOORD, 11. Natalie TOBIN, 12. Olivia PRICE, 13. Georgia YEOMAN-DALE, 14. Alanna KENNEDY, 16. Hannah BACON, 17. Kyah SIMON, 19. Leena KHAMIS, 20. Princess IBINI