A NUMBER of former Manchester United youth players returned to the club yesterday as Casey Stoney unveiled her team for the upcoming Women’s Championship season.

Seven players in total, including Emily Ramsey, Fran Bentley, Katie Zelem and Ella Toone make up a fairly young squad sprinkled with experienced players, England shot-stopper Siobhan Chamberlain and captain Alex Greenwood arguably the biggest names.

“We’ve gone young, we’ve gone exciting, we’ve gone entertaining,” said Stoney.

“I’m more than aware that we’re bringing 21 strangers together but I’m really excited about the squad and the future of this team.”

On the signing of Greenwood, Stoney added: “Signing Alex was very significant for us. She is an experienced international and has one of the best left foots in the game that will be vital to the way we want to play.” 

The captain, who joins from rivals Liverpool, said: “I’m ready for this challenge. I’m so proud to be captain of this team. And what a talented team I can say I captain.”

Having played with Chamberlain at international level, Stoney said that her experience will prove to be invaluable at this level.

“Siobhan’s experience will be vital with the youthful look of our squad. A real team player and a very driven individual. The thinker of the team.”

The 34-year-old will be kept on her toes by Ramsey, another player to join from Liverpool and Bentley, signing from neighbours City.

“To be able to bring Emily back is fantastic,” said Stoney of Ramsey. “She has a fantastic future ahead of her and is a great addition to our squad. Emily can achieve whatever she wants and we will support her to get there.”

Bentley, 17, said: “So happy to have signed for Manchester United. Being able to come back to the club where it all started for me is a dream come true and an opportunity I couldn’t miss.”

Assistant manager Willie Kirk has pinched a few players from former club Bristol City, Aimee Palmer and Millie Turner.

While Doncaster Rovers Belles, who this week were forced to join Sheffield FC in dropping out of the Championship due to financial reasons, lost striker Jessica Sigsworth, who was the top scorer in the second tier last season with 16 league goals.

Another Belle to join United, striker Kirsty Hanson who began her career in United’s academy, said: “A dream come true. Delighted to be back where it started at under-17s and sign for the first ever [Manchester United] women’s team. Excited for this journey to begin.”

Zelem spent one season in Italy with Juventus, winning the Serie A title, only to return to the club which developed her as a youngster.

“I’m really glad we have been able to bring Katie back. Katie is a great player and fantastic character to have in the squad. Now we want her to reach her potential.”

One name that sticks out is Leah Galton. Having left United States club Sky Blue FC for Bayern Munich, she played one game for the club only to leave to take a break from playing professionally.

She has now returned to the game, with Stoney saying: “Left footers are rare and good ones even more so and having Leah gives us really good balance and the opportunity to attack quickly both sides. Extremely hard working and driven to take Manchester United to the next level.”

Stoney’s and United’s first test is in a behind closed doors friendly against Liverpool tomorrow.