Liverpool defender Becky Easton expects this year’s Women’s Super League to be the most competitive yet thanks to a flurry of major signings by the big teams during the close season, she said yesterday.

Defending champions Liverpool were third going into the final day of the 2014 season but retained their title on goal difference after they beat Bristol, leaders Birmingham drew against Notts County and second-placed Chelsea lost to Manchester City.

Easton expects the 2015 campaign to be equally close given that teams have strengthened considerably, with Liverpool signing African Women’s Player of the Year Asisat Oshoala, England defender Lucy Bronze quitting the Reds to join Manchester City and Sweden international goalkeeper Hedvig Lindahl moving to Chelsea.

“This season will be the toughest and most competitive in the WSL,” the 40-year-old right-back said.

“Teams have been strengthened by a lot of movement and transfers, with some good players from abroad coming over to play here this season. And it’s a World Cup year, so those involved with England will be trying to raise their game and get noticed.”

by Our Sports Desk