Former Reading, Chichester City and Southampton Women’s defender Chloe Tucker has signed for Winchester City Flyers.

The centre back links up with her former teammate in manager Emma Pearmine, after the two spent their early years at Reading together.

Tucker brings with her a wealth of experience, having played at the National League level for Chichester and Southampton respectively.

The defender also reconnects with some of her former teammates from over the years, making settling in easier.

On becoming a Flyer, she said: “It feels a little strange, but in the best possible way—almost like coming home.

“There are players here I’ve played with before and consider good friends, alongside a manager I’ve known for a long time.

“Emma and I played together at Reading FC when we were younger, so it’s funny now having her as my manager.

“She brings a wealth of knowledge and really understands women’s football. From the first session, being at Winchester has just felt natural.”

Tucker does join the club after overcoming an ACL injury that prematurely ended her time at Southampton and has been aided by Millbrook in her rehabilitation.

Following the injury, Tucker is looking to put her injuries and fitness worries behind her as she rekindles her love for the game.

She said: “After a couple of difficult seasons, both mentally and physically, I honestly thought my playing days were over. I’d pretty much accepted that it was time to retire.

“I owe a lot to Mark, Millbrook’s manager, and Abbie, their captain, who kept encouraging me to put my boots back on. I also must mention Jayda, one of Millbrook’s coaches.

“Together, they helped me enjoy football again, and playing Bournemouth in the FA Cup reminded me that perhaps I wasn’t finished just yet.

“Emma (Pearmine) first reached out that summer, before I went to play for Millbrook, but I was honest that I wasn’t ready to commit.

“After nearly 12 months out following surgery, I wanted to return properly, get fit and give myself the best possible chance.

“Emma was equally honest with me, including about where my fitness needed to be. After a few weeks of very tough graft, I’m really enjoying football again.

“The girls have been incredibly welcoming, and the club already feels like home.

“Ultimately, I came here for the challenge and the opportunity to play alongside people I know and trust. At 32, why not give it one more proper go?

“It’s a welcoming environment where I can work hard and rebuild without unnecessary pressure.

“A lot of credit must go to Emma, who has set clear values for the club, and you can already see them shining through in the group.

“I also want to thank our chairman, Tony Pantelli, who has supported my football journey since long before I became a Flyer. I couldn’t ask for much more.”

And what is Tucker looking to bring to the team ahead of a competitive Southern Region season?

She said: “Hopefully, a full season of playing rather than another one spent on the sidelines.

“You can expect big headers, strong challenges and maybe even a few goals.

“I’ll fight for everything and put my body on the line for the team.

“Most importantly, I want to bring leadership, support the younger players and help everyone around me have the best season possible.

“It’s going to be a competitive league, but hopefully we can push for the title. Whatever the team needs from me, I’ll give it everything.”