Irish International Megan Connolly will captain Bristol City WFC for their return to the Barclays Women's Super League after two years in the Championship.
The 26-year-old midfielder signed from Brighton and Hove Albion, where she has made 58 appearances in four years. She was also part of Vera Pauw's World Cup squad this summer.
The Robins are returning to the WSL under the leadership of manager Lauren Smith, who was named LMA Championship Manager of the Season after last season's title victory.
Connolly's Ireland teammate Chloe Mustaki recently extended her stay with the Robins to at least 2025. Both Mustaki and Connolly will play for the Republic of Ireland in Saturday's (Sept. 23) UEFA Nations League opener against Northern Ireland.
"It's a real honour and privilege to be named captain," said the Cork native.
"Since joining the club I've been taken aback by how great the culture and environment is throughout, both the staff and the players, and it's something I've told the players is so special and important in being a successful team in any league... I look around the squad and staff and I feel so lucky and honoured to lead this team for the coming WSL campaign."
"I have been lucky to be in teams in the past where I've had amazing captains to look up to and learn from which has helped me to develop my leadership skills. I am surrounded by many other great leaders in this squad, who I know will also continue to drive this team alongside me."
