After five years away, Canberra United legend and foundation captain Ellie Brush has re-joined the Liberty A-League club.
With over a century of matches for Canberra over two spells and a pair of A-League Women Championships, experienced defender Brush returns for the 2022-23 season.
The 34-year-old last played for Canberra in 2017 before representing Sydney FC and Western Sydney Wanderers.
Brush’s Canberra comeback is a chance for the two-time Australia international to reignite her ALW career, which has been hampered by an ACL injury that ended her 2021-22 campaign before it even began for Sydney FC.
She suffered the serious knee injury in Sydney’s 6-2 win over Perth Glory in February 2021.
“I am extremely excited to be returning to Canberra for the new season and reacquainting myself with the club and its fantastic supporters,” Brush said.
“I have very many happy memories of my time with Canberra United and being part of a wonderful football club in a terrific city. It’s a team that has a special place in my heart and I am thrilled to be back.
“Njegosh [Popovich] is a great coach, we have an excellent coaching and backroom staff that I have had the pleasure of working with previously, and the club are building a strong squad.
“I can’t wait to get started and get back out on the field in front of some of the best supporters in the league.”
Brush’s first spell with Canberra was her most successful.
She won two Championships (2011-12 and 2014-15) and as many Premierships (2011-12 and 2013-14).
Canberra head coach Njegosh Popovich added: “Ellie brings a wealth of top-level experience and nous to our squad, and I am happy that she has decided to re-join Canberra United for the 2022-23 season.
“She is a very experienced defender that has the ability to find forward passes unlocking defences and is also an aerial threat scoring goals from set-pieces.
“She knows and understands the culture at Canberra, being part of the club from the inaugural season, and has captained the club for many years. The supporters are all very familiar with Brushy as she has been an integral part of the team since its formation.
“Ellie also has the winning mentality required to mentor and lead younger players through her own experiences being part of leadership groups, helping us to four trophies in her career.
“Ellie can impart that knowledge to our youngsters. I am looking forward to working with her again during the year.”
