Defender Holly Housley says the ambition of the Belles was the driving force behind her return to the club.
The former Sheffield FC and Leeds United defender is delighted to be back at the club where she began her career.
“I’m really pleased to be re-joining the Belles,” she said.
“What attracted me back is the ambition of the club, the quality of both the playing and coaching staff, and how that is now showing in the Belles pushing for promotion.”
Housley came through the Belles’ youth set up and was promoted to the senior squad at the age of 16 when the club was part of the Women’s Super League alongside the likes of Millie Bright and Jess Sigsworth.
“That was a great experience, but I felt I needed regular game time if I was to develop further,” said the 24-year-old.
“I was offered that chance at Sheffield FC and was there for seven years. I then went for a short time to Leeds last year, but now I’m back at the Belles.”
A versatile left-sided defender who likes driving forward and creating scoring opportunities, Housley brings higher level experience to the squad.
She said: “I can use my experience to support the younger players in their development, but I’m always looking to improve myself as well.
“The coaching team here is very efficient and very supportive which can only impact positively on my game.”
Housley made her re-debut for the Belles coming on as a substitute in the Sheffield and Hallamshire County Cup win over Sheffield Wednesday last week.
“I’m returning from an ankle injury, so will be working hard to get myself fitter to give myself every chance of getting into the starting 11,” she said.
Housley has been handed the number 18 shirt with the Belles.