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Former Scotland youth international Lucy Graham has agreed to return to Hibernian Ladies following a spell with Swedish side Mallbackens IF.

The 19-year-old was a key component in the Ladies success over recent seasons but left midway through last term after being offered a professional contract with the Damallsvenskan outfit.

She joins Abbi Grant, Sarah Ewens and Rachel McLauchlan in committing to the club for the 2016 campaign as Hibernian attempt to end the dominance of Glasgow City and return to the European stage.

Graham told the club website: “I’m delighted to return to Hibs and it was an easy decision to make once I had decided to stay in Scotland. Everyone has been terrific and so welcoming on my return that it feels like I’ve never been away.

“I believe I’m a better player than the one that left because I’ve learned a lot about myself during my time in Sweden.  I’ve grown up more.

“When I left Hibs I was still trying to show my potential and gain recognition, now, I fell I’ve got a wise head on my shoulders and can offer a role in leadership and advice along with mental toughness – something I feel we lack in the woman’s game.

“The signings we have made ensures that there is real strength in depth to our squad now and I’m really excited to see what we can achieve together in the season ahead.

“We have gained a lot of experience of the last few seasons and this year I think we are capable of winning all of the domestic titles.”

Manager Chris Roberts added: “We are delighted to welcome Lucy back to the club. She can play in a number of roles through the middle and knows her way to goal. This is a huge boost for us going into the start of the season”

Hibernian Ladies open their campaign with an away trip to face Celtic in the League Cup on February 28th before taking on Rangers at home two weeks later in the Scottish Women’s Premier League 1’s opening fixture.

John Hislop
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John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.