Sydney FC has re-signed two-time Championship winning full-back Kirsty Fenton on a two-year contract.
The 20-year-old defender has been one of the Sky Blues’ standout performers over the last two seasons since arriving at Sky Park.
Fenton’s memorable opening goal in front of an A-League Women’s record crowd of 11,471 in the Sydney Derby at Allianz Stadium set the tone for last season’s Championship win.
“It’s exciting to sign for two years, I’m blessed to be here under Ante [Juric] and in this environment with the girls,” she said.
“It’s helped me learn so much both on and off the field and having the experience of the leadership group Nat [Tobin], Macca [Hawkesby], Charlotte [Mclean], Cortnee [Vine], Jada [Whyman] and Prinny [Ibini], I’m so lucky to be here and I wouldn’t be the person I am today.
“The experience and professionalism here makes you want to work hard and not let anyone down.
“I’m privileged to be a part of this and it’s very hard to keep a spot here, so to stay for two more seasons is great.”
The left back’s season was cut short when she ruptured her anterior cruciate ligament against Wellington Phoenix with three games of the regular season to go.
Her rehabilitation will continue throughout the off-season and the Young Matildas U20 World Cup star is targeting a return to action in the early part of 2025.
“It’s progressing really well and I’ll hopefully be running in a month, so we are looking on track.
“A few weeks after that I’ll be able to kick the ball and build up the speed, but the plan is to be back in January or February.
“I’m hoping I could have half of the season left so this gives me more motivation to ensure I do this injury right.
“This time off has helped me and I want to come back stronger.”
Head Coach Ante Juric is pleased to be able to reward Fenton’s performances with a new deal.
“Kirsty had two outstanding campaigns until injury robbed her of the chance to complete last season,” he said.
“She is a higher level player with all around ability and excellent on field attributes.
“She also gives us great versatility in different positions when we need it so it’s a real bonus that she has re-signed for us.
“We hope her recovery goes well enough for her to be available for a large part of our next campaign.”
Fenton has played 36 times for Sydney FC scoring one goal and represented Australia in the 2022 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup playing in all three games against Costa Rica, Brazil and Spain.
