MK Dons Women are delighted to announce the capture of Nicola Puddick and Angelina Nixon from Arsenal and Birmingham City.
Puddick, an 18-year-old left back, joins the club after coming through the ranks of Arsenal and playing a pivotal role in their Under-21s side last season.
An exciting and athletic defender, Puddick was the subject of interest from a number of FA Women’s National League and WSL Championship clubs but joins the Dons as the Club’s fourth signing of the summer window.
On signing for the Dons, Puddick said: “I am really excited to sign for MK Dons. All the players and staff have been so welcoming since I arrived and I'm looking forward to making the step up from playing academy football to the women's senior game. I'm so exciting for the season and can't wait until 21 August”
Nixon, meanwhile, joins the Club from WSL Championship side Birmingham City. The 20-year-old attacker, who can play as a nine or a 10, has had an instant impact during pre-season with the Club, scoring and assisting goals while settling quickly into the MK Dons environment.
She told mkdons.com: “'I am so excited to sign for MK Dons. I'm as ready as ever to take this opportunity as I believe this is now my time.
“I'm coming into the Club with ambitious goals to ensure I have a big impact on the squad and I look forward to being part of a strong, tight group of players as we look to have a successful season.”
On bringing Puddick and Nixon to the Club, MK Dons Women’s Head of Football & Performance, Jack Sharp, commented: “Being able to entice the quality of player such as Nicola and Angelina is a huge statement of intent for our Football Club.
“Both players had many options on the table to join clubs higher up the divisions but they have bought into our project. As an organisation we have worked hard to position ourselves to offer the best environment for young players to flourish in the senior game.
“The fact we are attracting players who have come in from Women's Super League structures is vitally important for the direction we want to take this club and our player recruitment strategy.”
MK Dons Women's Head Coach Charlie Bill added: “Getting these two players through the door are massive for us. With both players having had WSL Under-21s contact time, they have added such technical quality to the group.
“Angelina is a player who is always willing to take risks in possession and a player who is forward-thinking which is exactly we are looking for in this team. I have no doubt she will have huge impact at the top end of the pitch this season.
“Nicola is another player who is going to bring such value to what we do. She gives us real balance in the side as a player who is so comfortable getting on the ball from deep and always looking to play out.
“She brings real athleticism to support with all her attacking and defensive actions. I can't wait to work with both for the season and to continue to support both their development!”
Both Puddick and Nixon are available to sponsor for the 2022/23 season. Email jack.sharp@mkdonsset.com for more information.
