Flash Acquire English National Team Midfielder
June 21, 2016 - National Women's Soccer League (NWSL)
Western New York Flash News Release
ROCHESTER, NY - The Western New York Flash have acquired Lianne Sanderson in a deal that sends an international spot to the Orlando Pride. Sanderson, a native of England, was selected No. 7 overall in the 2015 NWSL Expansion Draft. In eight appearances with the Pride, Sanderson totaled two goals and an assist.
Flash head coach Paul Riley will be reunited with Sanderson, who played for Riley's successful Philadelphia Independence 2010 and 2011 campaigns. She also played under Riley's 2015 Portland Thorns.
"Lianne is one of the few true number ten's in the world. Sophisticated mind, great final ball, ability to put points on the board, and vision which sets her apart from your prototype NWSL midfielder," said Riley. "She is truly passionate about the game and her soccer IQ will be vital in unleashing players like Jess, Lynn and Mac. Knowledge and hunger are two wonderful assets. I've coached Lianne before and I'm excited to get the best out of her. She will be a fantastic locker room personality and superb role model for our younger players."
Sanderson, who has nearly 50 appearances and 15 goals for England, has scored 26 goals at the professional level in America. She made her U.S. pro debut in 2010 for Riley's Philadelphia Independence. She also spent time with English sides Arsenal and Chelsea.
The international spot will be for the 2016, 2017, and 2018 seasons.
The fourth place Western New York Flash (5-4) look to regain their winning form in the NWSL against last place Boston Breakers (1-7-1) on Friday, June 24, at 7:00 p.m. at Rochester Rhinos Stadium in Rochester, N.Y. Tickets are available for the match at wnyflash.com/tickets with a live stream at youtube.com/NWSL.
Lianne Sanderson
Position: Midfielder
Height: 5-8
Date of Birth: Feb. 3, 1988
Hometown: Lewisham, England
Previous Club: Orlando Pride
Citizenship: USA/England
National Women's Soccer League Stories from June 21, 2016
- Orlando Pride Acquires International Roster Spot from Western New York - Orlando Pride
- Flash Acquire English National Team Midfielder - Western New York Flash
- Chicago Red Stars Forward Sofia Huerta Voted NWSL Player of the Week - NWSL
- Red Stars Sofia Huerta Named NWSL Player of the Week - Chicago Stars FC
- Red Stars Kick off Road Swing with Massive Clash at Portland - Chicago Stars FC
- Bright House Sports Network to Broadcast Four Upcoming Orlando Pride Matches - Orlando Pride
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