Brooke Nunn warming up for the London Bees during the 2021 FA Women's Championship. Photo: Action Foto Sport / NurPhoto via AFP
The Wellington Phoenix have signed experienced English forward Brooke Nunn, in a major coup ahead of the new women's A-League season.
Nunn, who is the team's fifth and final visa player, came through the Arsenal academy and played for the Gunners as a teenager.
She was an integral member of the Central Coast Mariners' championship winning side last season, on their way to beating Melbourne Victory in the grand final.
The 32-year-old scored four goals, including a brace in the first leg of the semi-final against premiers Melbourne City, and also had three assists, one of which was for the only goal in a 1-0 win over the Phoenix in January.
Wellington Phoenix head coach Bev Priestman is delighted to have been able to secure Nunn's signature.
"As well as being part of a championship-winning A-League side last season, Brooke has a lot of personality that she can bring to a game and the team. She has a big engine, great pace and is really brave going forward, all attributes that will make her an asset and a versatile player for us," Priestman said.
Nunn arrived in Wellington on Wednesday and met her new team-mates for the first time on Thursday.
"I believe the Phoenix offers me the right environment to continue developing as a player and a person," Nunn said.
"The coaching staff, squad and competitive level align with where I see myself progressing in my career. I love the club's ambition and vision, and I want to be part of building something great."
Nunn said she enjoyed playing for women coaches.
"...It's empowering, and I know Bev has great experience so I believe she can bring out the best in me."
After eight years at Arsenal, she played for London Bees and London City Lionesses in the English Championship, Altay in Turkey and Scottish clubs Hibernian and Motherwell before signing with the Mariners.
Nunn is looking forward to a second season in the A-League after her experience with Central Coast.
"Once I got a taste of the A-League I really felt at home. The league is exciting and competitive with unpredictable outcomes and last minute goals which makes every game interesting.
"I thrive in pressure situations where I can use my speed and physicality to make an impact."
The competitive Nunn hopes to have more success in Wellington.
"I have a winning mentality, and I just want to win ...and I think I can bring a lot of experience, leadership, good work ethic, mental toughness, passion, flair and creativity to the Phoenix."
Nunn is the 24th player confirmed in the women's squad for the 2025-26 Ninja A-League, which starts next week.
The Phoenix have a bye in round one and open their season at Sky Stadium against Canberra United on Saturday, 8 November.
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