More forward thinking from Phelan as Everton Women sign another two attackers

Everton Women have further bolstered the attack with the signings of highly-rated Australia international forward Holly McNamara and versatile striker Jutta Rantala from Leicester City.

McNamara joins the Blues on a free transfer after her contract expired at Melbourne City, and is the latest arrival for the Toffees following the acquisitions of former Foxes trio Noémie Mouchon, Hannah Cain and Rantala, as well attacking midfielder Zara Kramžar and defender Hannah Blundell.

Meanwhile Denmark international Holmgaard becomes the third player this summer to extend their stay with Everton after penning a new one-year contract, which follows new deals for captain Megan Finnigan and Italian star Aurora Galli.

And the 23-year-old will have some big shoes fill after being given the coveted No.9 shirt for the forthcoming campaign.

McNamara will line up alongside Rantala, who was named Leicester’s 2023/24 Player of the Season in her maiden campaign with the Foxes, after the Blues triggered a release clause for the Finland international.

The 26-year-old brings goalscoring and technical abilities to Scott Phelan’s side, along with versatility at being able to play across the front three and in the No.10 role.

Turning attentions to midfield, Holmgaard will be eyeing a return to first-team action for the Blues as she continues her rehabilitation from an anterior cruciate ligament injury sustained in January.

Signing for the Toffees in August 2022 along with her twin sister Sara, the 27-year-old is one of the Toffees most popular players with teammates, staff and fans alike, with her determination and versatility on the pitch, as well as leadership skills, often proving pivotal to the cause.

Capped over 30 times by Denmark, Holmgaard has been unfortunate with injuries, but has worked tirelessly behind the scenes to return from a hip injury in time for the 2025 European Championships, although the former Fortuna Hjørring star will be fully focused on showcasing her skills at Goodison Park next season.

Speaking on her recovery, Holmgaard told evertontv:

“I am not that long in my recovery. It will take a little while, but when I am back I am sure I will be so proud and I cannot wait. I am so, so excited. I am dreaming about the day I return.

“I am really proud to have signed a new contract here. I have been here for quite a long time now and have enjoyed it. Hopefully, I can come back stronger. I am just excited to be back on the pitch and help the team.”

And on her new contract, the Dane continued:

“I am really proud to have signed a new contract here. I have been here for quite a long time now and have enjoyed it. Hopefully, I can come back stronger. I am just excited to be back on the pitch and help the team.

“The Club means a lot to me. I have been here for four years now. I want to keep working, keep developing. I think the values I stand for are the same as Everton Football Club. I am a hard worker and I am excited to show that on the pitch when I am back.”