Durham Women FC are delighted to announce the first player to #JoinOurJourney in 2017/18, as striker Abi Cottam joins the Wildcats.
Cottam, 26, has previously turned out for West Bromwich Albion, IBV and Aston Villa, with the striker netting 40 goals in 58 appearances during her two years at West Brom.
She was part of the Baggies side that won the FA WPL Northern Division in 2015/16 and featured in the play-off game against Brighton & Hove Albion which saw the Midlanders narrowly fall short of promotion.
The striker now joins the Wildcats and will study for a Masters Degree at Durham University as well as representing the University side in BUCS competitions.
Speaking after agreeing her move, Cottam said: “It’s really exciting to be here and I’m looking forward to the challenge. I think it’s a great opportunity and the setup here is exciting.
“Durham have a lot to offer in terms of football and the place itself so it’s an excellent opportunity.”
Manager Lee Sanders was delighted to capture the forward, saying: “Abi is a name that has kept cropping up over the last year or so and we kept an eye on what she was doing at West Brom.
“She has a very good goal-scoring record which is comparable with some strikers that have stepped up from the WPL to the Super League in the last couple of years.
“She’s also played abroad and has some experience in the Super League – including a memorable goal against Doncaster a few years ago – and gives the team an extra bit of balance being left footed.
“Hopefully she can come in and add an extra dimension to our attacking play.
“Abi has come in, like other players in the squad, as part of our Masters Scholarship with Durham University. It’s a great tool for the football club to be able to attract players of WSL quality and for players to mix their education with top level football.”
We wish Abi every success at Durham.
Report courtesy of Durham Women FC
