‘One of the greatest strikers to have played the Women’s game’: Heyman re-signs in Canberra

Michelle Heyman is staying put, with the Canberra United captain signing a new two-year marquee deal at the Liberty A-League club.

Heyman is the A-League Women’s all-time leading goalscorer courtesy of 82 goals in 141 matches, while she is a two-time champion in Canberra.

The 34-year-old former Matildas striker is showing no signs of slowing down, pledging her future to Canberra until the end of the 2023-24 season.

“I am absolutely thrilled to sign a new two-year contract with Canberra United,” said Heyman, who will also become football ambassador at Capital Football.

“It’s no secret that I love being part of the club here in Canberra and that I have enjoyed many happy memories playing in the famous green shirt.

“With Njegosh (Popovich) being named Head Coach, and the addition of his coaching staff and some excellent young signings, it was an easy decision for me to commit to the club for the next two seasons.

“I am excited by the direction that the club is taking and can’t wait to get started.”

Canberra missed the ALW finals last season, but Heyman scored nine goals in 14 appearances in 2021-22.

Heyman – who found the back of the net 20 times at international level – bagged a hat-trick against Brisbane Roar on the final day of the season.

“I am thrilled that Michelle has committed herself to Canberra United for the next two Liberty A-League campaigns,” said head coach Njegosh Popovich.

“There is no doubt that she is one of the greatest strikers to have played the Women’s game, and her goal scoring record in the A-League is incredible. But it’s not just her goals that makes her such a special talent.

“Michelle is a very clever footballer in the way she can drop deep and dictate the tempo of attacks and how she links up between midfield and the forward line. Whilst her finishing is exemplary, it’s her all-round game that makes her a standout.”