Matildas striker Michelle Heyman is the latest of Australia’s Women’s World Cup stars to head overseas, signing a deal with US side Western New York Flash. The 27-year-old Canberra United forward will link up with the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) outfit pending visa clearance.

“Excited to be joining @WNYFlash! Can’t wait for it all to begin!” tweeted Heyman, who appeared in all five of Australia’s matches in the Matildas’ historic World Cup run last month, including making two starts.

Though this will be her first stint overseas, Heyman already has a connection with the Flash having played alongside goalkeeper Chantel Jones for Canberra when they won the 2015 W-League title with a 3-1 win over top-seeded Perth Glory.

“Michelle coming in is going to enable us to vary things a little bit more tactically,” said Flash coach Aaran Lines. “She’s going to give us some experience in the final third of the field.

“Everyone who has played in that role for us has done a very good job, and we are adding another quality player to our roster – one who has played an important role with Australia.”

Heyman is the latest of a number of Matildas stars to continue their careers overseas. Fellow striker Kyah Simon, who scored three World Cup goals, is also heading back to the US to spend another season with former club Boston Breakers.

Outstanding midfielder Elise Kellond-Knight has joined German Women’s Bundesliga club FFC Turbine Potsdam on a two-year deal. Kellond-Knight was awarded back-to-back player of the match honours in Australia’s group-stage draw with Sweden and upset knockout win over Brazil.



