Watford Ladies have announced their first new signing ahead of the 2019/20 season, as former Tottenham Hotspur defender Ryah Vyse joins the club.

The 26-year-old helped Spurs earn promotion to the Super League last season and told the Watford website she has similar ambitions for the Hornets.

“The team had some good results last year and were up amongst it," she said.

"Watford are a club on the rise with a good vision and ambitions for promotion.

“I’ve played against Watford in the past and known about the culture of the club. I’ve had friends who’ve played here and only ever heard good things.

“There’s always been a family feel and that’s important to me. I don’t just want to go to any club, it’s got to have the right feel and the right culture.

“I’ve really enjoyed it so far. The professionalism is good, it’s down to business as soon you get to training, however there’s a good balance of getting stuff done but enjoying it also.”

Vyse has arrived to play with a squad that she feels already possesses a good sense of comradery and she is looking forward to making herself a part of the team.

“I’ve noticed in training that with the team similar to last year, there isn’t that pre-season feel of trying to gel,” she said.

“The girls are already on it and know where each other are and how everyone plays.

“Obviously there’s some new people like myself coming in with some learning still to do, but I think there’s a really good foundation at the club.”

Head coach Armand Kavaja spoke of his joy at making the signing and believes Vyse will become a major part of the team for the upcoming season.

“We are really happy to sign Ryah. She is really adding strength to our squad and she will be a key player during the 2019/20 season,” he said.

“She is tidy and positive in possession, with a great work ethic.”

Vyse has only ever played for Spurs in England, but did spend time playing in America between two spells with the north London club.

However, she feels she will be able to adapt to life in Watford quickly and believes there is enough within the squad to earn promotion.

“Only ever playing for Spurs here has been a big part of my football life," she said.

"I think going to America has helped with the move, I was able to settle in quickly then and that’s what is happening at Watford. It’s an adjustment, but it’s been good.

“Promotion is the big focus. I just want to do whatever I can individually to help the team to the ultimate goal of promotion, whether that’s defending loads in one game, or getting an assist.

“I think the extra session we’ve been doing will be really important for us. I feel the fitness side and the tactical side is great.

“With all of the things we’ve been working on, I think it’s all set up really well so that we’re ready for that first game of the season.”