Following last year’s fourth-placed Genero Adran Premier finish, The New Saints Women have today moved to strengthen their squad with the signing of midfielder, Ella Hartley.

Beginning her footballing career at the Manchester United Centre of Excellence, the 25-year-old also turned out for Everton Ladies at Academy level, and most recently represented FA Women’s National League North side, Brighouse Town.

Prior to joining the Reds, Hartley spent three years with Sheffield FC – captaining the development team during her time at the Home of Football Stadium – before heading north and signing for Guiseley Vixens.

Following an ACL injury, her time with the Vixens was unfortunately cut short, and she didn’t play competitive football until signing for FC United at the start of the 2021/22 season.

Scoring five times in 11 appearances, the move to higher-ranked Brighouse Town followed in November 2021, and Hartley continued her impressive displays with a further two goals in 10 matches at St Giles Road.

Having caught the attention of TNS head coach, Greg Draper, the New Zealand international was keen to secure the midfielder’s signature, and therefore made an approach earlier this summer.

It was good news as far as The New Saints were concerned, as Ella elected to move to Park Hall ahead of the new Genero Adran Premier season.

“Ella is a player who brings a huge amount of experience to the squad,” Draper said, following confirmation of the signing.

“After only watching her for a short time, it was very obvious that she was a player that we needed to bring in as soon as possible.

“Her athleticism and technical ability make her a very exciting player to watch, and I have no doubt she will light up the league week after week this season.”

In addition to the above, Hartley brings international pedigree to Park Hall too, having represented England from U15 to U19 levels.

Speaking to tnsfc.co.uk earlier today, Ella was equally delighted with her move to Park Hall, describing it as “an exciting opportunity to join a forward-thinking club with ambition and a clear vision for the season”.

“I’m feeling ready for the new challenge of playing in the Genero Adran Premier alongside a great calibre of players and coaching staff at TNS,” she added.

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