Ipswich Town Women have continued building their team for the upcoming season of 2026/27, with the two additions of Emma Lawton and Tegan McGowan to their roster, giving them international experience and high-level skills, both of which have bolstered David Wright’s team.
Emma Lawton Signs Three-Year Deal From Celtic
Town have completed the signing of full‑back Emma Lawton from Scottish Women’s Premier League champions Celtic.
Lawton joins on a three‑year contract after making close to 50 appearances across two seasons for the Ghirls, scoring six goals and helping the club lift the Scottish Women’s Cup in May. Before her time at Celtic, she represented Motherwell and Partick Thistle, building a strong reputation as an energetic, attack‑minded defender.
The 24‑year‑old also brings international experience, having earned 12 senior caps for Scotland, scoring twice.
Lawton said: “I wanted a new challenge, and having spoken to Sean and David, it seems like there’s a really good project here. I’m an athletic and energetic defender who likes to make things happen. It felt like the right fit for me at this time in my career.”
Women’s Technical Director Sean Burt added: “We’re thrilled Emma has chosen to join us. Attracting such a standout player on a domestic and international level speaks volumes for our club. She’s an all‑out attacking full‑back and someone we knew instantly we wanted to bring in.”
Tegan McGowan Arrives After Leaving Birmingham City
Ipswich have also secured winger Tegan McGowan on a two‑year deal following her departure from Birmingham City. McGowan spent the last two seasons in the West Midlands, making 17 appearances in her first campaign as Blues narrowly missed out on WSL promotion, before joining Southampton on loan for the second half of last season.
The 21‑year‑old began her career in Chelsea’s academy before moving to Charlton Athletic in 2022, where she scored five goals in 17 appearances after returning from injury, form that earned her a move to Birmingham.
McGowan said: “The club’s ambitions match my own and the style of play suits my game. I know some of the girls already, which helps, and I’m really excited to get to work.”
Sean Burt added: “As soon as we knew Tegan was available, we knew we wanted to bring her in. She’s proven at this level and we’ve seen first‑hand how effective she can be. She’ll excite fans in wide areas and we’re looking forward to seeing her impact.”
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Hannah Darbyshire
Hannah is an Ipswich Town writer for Vital Football and a lifelong supporter of the club. Growing up following Town through the highs, lows, and long wait for a Premier League return, she brings a supporter’s voice and a sharp editorial eye to her coverage. Her work focuses on telling…