Gemma Bonner signs contract extension with Liverpool Ladies
Friday 27 November 2015 16:37, UK
Skipper Gemma Bonner has committed her future to Liverpool Ladies by signing a contract extension with the club.
Bonner joined Liverpool from Chelsea three years ago and helped the club win back-to-back FA Women's Super League titles in 2013 and 2014.
"I'm delighted to be staying at the club and I'm really excited for next season," Bonner told Sky Sports.
"I never expected it to go as well as it has done. Obviously, last season was difficult with the number of injuries we've had but I've loved every minute of captaining and playing for this team.
"We have new management and there will be some new players coming in so next season will be a fresh start for us in many ways. We're all excited about the challenge ahead and we want to be back competing at the top of the league next season."
The Leeds-born central defender expects to resume training in the New Year after suffering badly damaged ankle ligaments in a Champions League game against Brescia at the end of last season.
"The injury is progressing really well," she said. "I'm back walking and able to do a lot more now that I am out of the protective boot. I should be good to train again with the team come January."
Bonner's contract extension comes the day after New Zealand international striker Rosie White - who joined the club during the mid-season break in 2015 - put pen to paper on a new contract with the club.
"I have really enjoyed my time at Liverpool Ladies so far and I am delighted to have agreed a new deal to extend my time with the club," White said.
"The Women's Super League is one of the most competitive leagues in the world and I cannot wait for the new season to begin."
Liverpool were handed a boost earlier in the week, when youngsters Katie Zelem and Ashely Hodgson, and the club's Players' Player of the Year Martha Harris also signed on for next season.
"All three players are players with a great deal of potential," manager Scott Rogers said.
"Last season was a difficult season for us, but one of the benefits was allowing players like Martha, Ashley and Katie to gain some valuable first team experience. I am confident that all three players will improve their game because of the experience gained last season and will be crucial players for both club and country in the coming years."
