“When I came to the Club, Risa [Shimizu] and Hona [Hayashi] helped me settle in, so I want to help Yu to settle in too,” said Ueki, with a heartfelt smile.
“On the pitch, she understands my strengths and we make good combinations as well. Two years ago I couldn’t speak English, so I want to help her enjoy English! I think hers is getting better.”
“My old team in Japan, Tokyo Verdy Belez, and her old team, Urawa Reds, are big rivals, so I’m so happy that we can be teammates now!”
Ueki, who last week celebrated her 26th birthday, is entering her third season in Claret and Blue and was delighted to be reunited with Rehanne Skinner’s side when they returned to Chadwell Heath on Monday 21 June.
The pre-season training camp in Prague provides an opportunity to strengthen bonds within the team, and for the Irons to test themselves against strong opposition.