Everton can confirm the signing of experienced Women’s Super League winger Melissa Lawley.

The 30-year-old England international has enjoyed a distinguished career with Arsenal, Bristol City, Birmingham City, Manchester City and, most recently, Liverpool, where she left last month.

An intelligent and dangerous winger on both sides of the pitch, Lawley joins the Blues with 132 WSL appearances to her name and a hunger to kick on under the guidance of boss Brian Sorensen.

In her first evertontv interview, Lawley outlined her decision to swap the red of Liverpool for a new challenge in Royal Blue.

“I’m really excited for the next challenge in my career,” she said.

“I’ve spent five years in Merseyside and I’m excited to now be a Blue.

“I fell in love with the people, with the fans. Every time I played against Everton, the fans were amazing, even if they gave me a bit of stick!

“I’m excited to now be on their side and helping Everton to become successful.”

Lawley becomes the fourth Everton signing of the summer transfer window, following fellow forward Toni Payne, goalkeeper Ines Pereira – who will spend the upcoming season on loan with Deportivo de La Coruna – and Japan international Honoka Hayashi.

Lawley added she has been a long-term admirer of the Blues and knew the opportunity to play for Everton was too good to turn down.

“When I’ve watched Everton, I loved the way they play. They move the ball quick, very attacking style of side,” she said.

“I knew this club was for me. I knew I’d thrive playing as a Blue.

“When I knew Brian [Sorensen] was interested in me, I didn’t give it a second thought. I knew my style of play would fit into this team.

“Hopefully working with Brian and the team, we can bring success.”

Manager Sorensen told evertonfc.com why he feels Lawley’s WSL experience is vital in the team’s bid to progress this season.

“I’m really glad we were able to bring Melissa to the Club,” said the Blues boss.

“Last season was a bit disruptive for her in terms of injury, but the season before I thought she was one of Liverpool’s best players. I coached against her when she was at Manchester City and saw her quality then, too.

“Melissa has a wealth of experience in this league, which is important, and she is a good character on and off the pitch.

“It was extremely important we recruited in the wide areas this summer and it was vital for us to sign Melissa in terms of how we play.

“The way we play, she fits in extremely well. For me, Melissa is a key signing.”