Mead joins Arsenal and adds to Sunderland’s exodus

Striker Beth Mead is the latest star to join Arsenal ready for the Spring Series – and is another Sunderland star out of the door following the shock announcement they will no longer have full-time professional playing staff.

The Lady Black Cats have already lost midfielder Rachel Furness to Reading, and observers have speculated that there may be more moves imminent before the Spring Series begins.

Mead, who averages almost a goal a game, is a fixture in the England junior set-up and was the 2016 PFA Young Player of the Year, having scored a remarkable 77 goals in 78 appearances for Sunderland.

We can confirm that @bmeado9 will wear the number 23 shirt

2️⃣️3️⃣️ – #BethIsAGunner pic.twitter.com/vseb8K81Gc

— Arsenal Ladies (@ArsenalLadies) January 24, 2017

She completed her undergraduate degree at Teesside University last summer, leaving her free to focus on her football.

At Arsenal, she is expected to link up with Jodie Taylor, a key part of the England squad for the 2015 Women’s World Cup and (fitness permitting) the forthcoming Euros.

“I am so excited to have signed for Arsenal Ladies and I can’t wait to get started,” said Mead in a club statement.

“I want to win trophies with this team, and I want to learn and grow further from the top players that I will be playing with here.

“It’s an honour to be a part of this special club.”