This week’s Everton Women column assesses how the Blues’ summer business could shape the season ahead

Everton Women confirmed star defender Gabby George has joined Manchester United with just a few hours left in the summer transfer window.

The Red Devils had swooped in at the eleventh hour to activate the England international’s £150,000 release clause, sparking speculation of George’s surprising departure the night before.

Everton were understandably hesitant to part with one of their most prized assets, especially with so little time to find a suitable replacement, but the nature of United’s approach meant their hands were tied, and George completed her move to Leigh Sports Village on the deadline day last Thursday.

George was, in many respects, the physical personification of Everton Women’s modern history. She joined the club in 2014, ironically from Manchester United, and went on to make over 100 appearances during her stint on Merseyside. She played in the 2014 FA Cup Final for the Blues and became the first Everton Women’s player to earn a professional deal in 2017.

Following the appointment of new manager Brian Sorensen last summer, George excelled in a more advanced left-wing-back role, and her commanding performance earned her the WSL Player of the Month award for January. The defender appeared set to reprise his leading role for Sorensen’s side in the forthcoming season, but the Blues will now have to rapidly adjust to life without one of their most talismanic players if they are to capitalise on the tremendous progress made last term.

Sorensen’s first season at Walton Hall Park was largely a success, with the Dane having implemented a dynamic, front-footed style of football that propelled Everton to a top-six finish. The challenge now is ensuring that progress continues and enables the Blues to close the gap on the WSL’s elite.

Over the summer, the club made six new signings and made highly-rated goalkeeper Emily Ramsey’s loan move from Manchester United permanent.

Everton have a fascinating young trio with very high ceilings in Heather Payne, Emma Bissell, and Karoline Olesen. Midfielder Justine Vanhaevermaet brings a plethora of WSL and international experience to Merseyside, while striker Martina Piemonte’s arrival from AC Milan is a huge coup for Sorensen’s side.

The Italian’s arrival – coupled with the addition of exciting Man United youngster Alyssa Aherne – should certainly help offset the departures of attacking duo Jess Park and Aggie Beever-Jones, who have returned to Manchester City and Chelsea respectively following the end of their loan spells at Walton Hall Park.

While George’s exit is undoubtedly a blow, Everton look to have brought in an exciting crop of players capable of executing Sorensen’s carefully laid out vision for the club. And the manager will be hoping his new recruits hit the ground running when the Blues host Brighton & Hove Albion on the opening day of the season.