Smith joins US soccer's Boston Breakers

Arsenal Ladies can today confirm that Kelly Smith has signed for Boston Breakers and will join the Massachusetts side early next month ready for the commencement of the Women’s Professional Soccer league in April 2009.

Smith (30) first featured for Arsenal Ladies in 1996 and then rejoined the Gunners in 2005 after eight years in America with Philadelphia Charge and New Jersey Wildcats. The striker has made 112 appearances for the Gunners since her return, and reached 100 goals in all competitions on Sunday when she lined up in the squad that beat Blackburn Rovers 4-0 in the Women’s Premier League. Unsurprisingly Kelly is also an integral part of the national set up with 76 caps to her name for England and 33 goals for the Three Lions.

Kelly has won 11 major honours with Arsenal Ladies and was recently named fifth best player in the world in the FIFA World Women’s Player Poll. Her invaluable contributions to the women’s game have also led her to be an MBE after being recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honour’s List 2008.

Kelly’s departure in March ensures her availability for the FA Tesco Women’s Premier League Cup Final on 26th February at Scunthorpe United’s stadium, Glanford Park, where the Gunners will face Doncaster Rovers Belles.

Everyone at Arsenal Football Club wishes Kelly the best of luck during her time with Boston Breakers.

*since Kelly’s return to Arsenal Ladies Football Club in 2005

Honours with Arsenal
Women’s Premier League - 1996/97, 2005/06, 2005/06, 2007/08
UEFA Women’s Cup - 2006/07
FA Cup - 2005/06, 2006/07, 2007/08
Premier League Cup - 2006/07
Community Shield - 2005/06, 2006/07