Watford Ladies have strengthened their goalkeeping options ahead of the start of the new Women’s Super League 2 season tomorrow with the signing of Sophie Cheadle from Queens Park Rangers Ladies.

The Golden Girls, under new head coach Katie Rowson, kick off their new campaign at London Bees and Cheadle is the first of six new arrivals set to be announced by the club today.

The keeper played a big part in her former side’s turnaround this season. She made her first start in 2015/16 for then winless R’s when they defeated unbeaten league leaders Brighton & Hove Albion.

Having only conceded eight goals in six league games, Cheadle turned a few heads in the subsequent FA Women’s Cup match, filling in outfield towards the end of the game against Bristol City.

“I’m really excited to be joining Watford Ladies,” Cheadle said. “It's a massive challenge, a lot of knee injuries have set me back in the past which made me think I would never get a chance in the Super League.”

Turning to her qualities as a player, the 22-year-old said: “I would say my best attributes are my kicking, height and shot stopping. I like the fact that there are a number of keepers at Watford, the girls are of a great standard so to be learning from them will be a massive spur for me.

“All the girls here are great, and you can tell the willingness from them. I always strive to be successful at a new club, the aim is to work together as a team, work hard at training and start the season well on Wednesday.”