Portsmouth sign Brighton teenagers Dent and McEwen | OneFootball

Portsmouth have completed the double-signing of Brighton & Hove Albion pair Lily Dent and Grace McEwen.

Pompey announced the news via a post on their official club website this evening.

It has been reported that Dent has joined Portsmouth on loan while McEwen has signed dual-registration terms, allowing her to represent Brighton & Hove Albion’s Professional Game Academy League side when required.

Forward Dent joins Portsmouth fresh off the back of signing her first professional contract with Brighton & Hove Albion on Monday. The 18-year-old broke into the Sussex club’s first team squad last season, making four appearances in all competitions.

McEwen also found herself in the senior squad at Brighton & Hove Albion last term. The 17-year-old defender made four appearances in all competitions for The Seagulls.

After joining Portsmouth, Dent said “I think it’s a great environment to come into, especially for a young player who’s looking to grow, and it’s a team who have a lot to fight for this season as well and I want to be part of that fight.

“I’ve only been in for a day, but I’m happy with my decision to come here and I can already tell it’s the right one. It’s made me excited for the season.

“I’m an attacking player, so I can play anywhere across the front three positions. I like to drive with the ball, take players on one-v-one and create opportunities for other forward players.”

McEwen also said “I think it’s a good challenge for me. It’ll be a great step for me to take on my journey in football. The players, staff and everyone have been so welcoming to me.

“I like the way the team play and the club is in an exciting place having been promoted last season.

“I’m a centre-back primarily and I’d say my best attributes are passing out from the back and dribbling forward with the ball.”

The pair could make their Portsmouth debuts when the club face Durham in their latest Barclays Women’s Championship fixture tomorrow afternoon.