Profile: Chelsea Ladies and England striker Eni Aluko

Eniola Aluko is one of the most recognisable faces in the women’s game. Her reputation as a goalscorer on the field has led to the Chelsea forward being a consistent name in the England squad for a number of years.

Shoot takes a look at one of the best finishers in the women’s game.

Where did she start her career?

Although she was born in Nigeria, Aluko and her family moved to Birmingham when she was one. The diminutive forward initially played for her local side Leafield Athletic Ladies, before Birmingham City Ladies scouted her and signed her up.

When did she make her Birmingham City Ladies debut?

It’s hard to believe, but at just 14 Aluko made her bow against Leeds United, and in the same game managed to get herself on the score sheet. Things went from strength to strength at Birmingham and at the age of 15 the forward played in the FA Women’s Premier League Cup Final.

What happened next?

In 2004, Aluko would leave Birmingham City to join Charlton Athletic Ladies, where she would spend the next three years plying her trade before a move to Chelsea Ladies.

Aluko in action against Manchester City.

Has she just played for English clubs?

No. Like many female footballers, Aluko made the move to USA where she would play for Saint Louis Athletica, scoring 10 goals in 25 games. She was the team’s leading goalscorer in her first season with six goals. Although selected to play in the All-Star game, she would miss this because of her international duties. Aluko then moved to Sky Blue FC in New Jersey.

When did she return to England?

Aluko moved back across the pond in 2012 and back to Birmingham City Ladies, where she spent only one season. She would go on to move to Chelsea Ladies for the second time later that year.

The 28-year-old enjoyed a fantastic 2015, winning the FA Women’s Cup final at Wembley and the WSL 1 title, as well as being part of the England Ladies side that finished third at the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Super Stat: Aluko sits fifth in the England all time top goalscorers list with 32 goals. Only three behind former England boss Hope Powell.