Former Arsenal goalkeeper Williams joins Brighton & Hove Albion | OneFootball

Former Arsenal goalkeeper Lydia Williams has joined Brighton & Hove Albion on an initial 18-month deal.

The Seagulls announced news of the transfer via a squad update on their official club website this afternoon.

Williams joins the Sussex club after most recently being on the books of French club Paris Saint-Germain. The 34-year-old signed for The Parisians after leaving Arsenal at the end of last season. Williams has made two appearances for Paris Saint-Germain this season. The keeper has largely played the role of an understudy for the French club just like she did at former club Arsenal. Williams spent two seasons with The Gunners, making 11 appearances for the club in the Barclays Women’s Super League.

The 102-times capped Australian international boasts lots of experience and that should be a real benefit for new club Brighton & Hove Albion.

After securing the services of Williams, Brighton & Hove Albion head coach Jens Scheuer said “Lydia brings a huge amount of experience to the team. She has played over 100 times for Australia and has a good understanding of the WSL from her time with Arsenal. Hopefully, we will see some of her wonderful saves!

“Well done to everyone involved in making sure that Lydia is a Brighton player, we’re delighted to have her.

“Now we have three good goalkeepers, the competition will be a lot stronger and that’s good for the team. I am sure Lydia will have a big impact.”

Williams will compete with Megan Walsh and Katie Startup for the goalkeeping jersey at Brighton & Hove Albion.