Ellie Walker commits to Wellington Phoenix after standout season

Wellington has started to feel like home for Ellie Walker as she commits to the Phoenix for another season.

The American is the only Phoenix player to have played every single minute this season and has proved a rock in their record-breaking defence.

The Wellington side have recorded a club-record six clean sheets this season and conceded 16 goals, two of which came in their loss to Central Coast Mariners midweek.

Walker’s fellow overseas players, Brooke Nunn and Makala Woods, have already signed for a second season, and her decision makes it 10 on the Phoenix’s books for next season.

“I feel like I’m at home,” Walker said.

“Someone is going to have to kick me out of here!

Ellie Walker has signed for a second season with the Wellington Phoenix. Photo / Photosport

“Wellington itself is just a great place to live and be. It kind of reminds me of home, minus the wind!

“I think it’s cool to have the chance to stay at a place for another year, especially when you’re happy and you like where you are.”

Head coach Bev Priestman was pleased to have secured the experienced player’s signature.

“Ellie’s shown this season what she can contribute to our side,” Priestman said.

“Her defensive qualities and aggression to help us win the ball back have been fantastic.

“She has also made our right-hand side attack tick with her technical ability on the ball, and she is a threat in the box for us as well.

“And Ellie’s leadership and communication are a major asset to the team.

“I look forward to seeing her continue to grow in yellow and black next season.”

Walker said she was happy to be a part of the Phoenix project and wanted to bring silverware to the club.

“Success is nice too, so having a winning season thus far is exciting. Whether we win a title this year or next year, there’s a lot of hope, and I’ve bought into it.”

Walker is set to feature against Western Sydney Wanderers at Porirua Park on Sunday, with the club already finals-bound.