Newcastle Jets W-League coach Craig Deans finalised his 2016/17 squad today with the addition of Washington Spirit stars Megan Oyster and Kelsey Wys.
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Oyster, 24, returns after an amazing season in defence for the Jets last year and is determined to lead the team to their first finals appearance since 2008.
“We were so close last year to making the play-offs [last year] and, I know that now with another year of experience for this young team, we will have a better chance of achieving that goal to make the finals this season,” Oyster said.
“I also hope to learn more from Craig about the centre-back position and continue to develop my own game.”
Deans was keen to re-sign Oyster after such a great season last year.
“Megan fits in well with the team and the other girls, having been here last year she knows our style and the way we want to play and it’s important to have someone back that can fit in straight away,” Deans said.
“All of her attributes on the field are something we wanted to have back this year after her performance last year.”
Wys, a 25-year-old goalkeeper, has played with Washington Spirit for two seasons. Previously she was with the Western New York Flash and has been in multiple United States youth teams.
This is her first time playing abroad and the shot-stopper was keen to get a taste for the W-League, which starts this weekend.
The Jets open their W-League campaign in Melbourne against Melbourne City on Sunday.
“I’m excited to get started with the Jets this season as my goals are to broaden my playing skill by adding an overseas experience,” Wys said.
“I have heard nothing but great things about the city of Newcastle and the team. I am so grateful to the coaches and staff of the Jets for making this opportunity possible for me.”
Wys comes in as replacement for young gun Hannah Southwell, who is taking a year off football and Deans believes she will be more than capable to fill the role.
“With the loss of Hannah, we thought that it was important to have good competition for the goalkeeping spot,” he said.
“It’s an important area of the pitch and it will play a big part in us continuing to improve on last season.”
The Jets will have four US imports in total this season including defender Arin Gilliland and striker Jen Hoy.