Arriving as the first ever overseas signing, Hoogendijk has raised the fans expectations for the new season.
The departure of key players as Kim Little, Stephanie Houghton, Gemma Davison or Ciara Grant, raised many question marks on whether Arsenal Ladies will continue with the same dynamics and intensity as before.
Arsenal Ladies responded quickly by signing 6 players, lately two experienced Japanese internationals Yukari Kinga (INAC Kobe) and Shinji Ohno (Sayama FC), both silver medalists of London 2012.
However, the signing that thrilled all of us, no doubt it was Noukie. She didn’t fail to get the attention of our manager, Arsene, as he immediately asked if she was special.
Well, Mr. Wenger, eyes can give you a fully vivid picture on that how special she is.
Our stunning defender Thomas Vermaelen also posed with her, holding the Arsenal shirt in front of the lens.
The 28-year-old Dutch arrived from Ajax this transfer window, completing 27 appearances for the Dutch side.
It’s not the first time Anouk features in England. She has experience formerly playing for Bristol Academy, an eight-month spell in 2011, appearing in 13 matches.
She’s an experienced player in an international level as well, having 94 appearances for Netherlands and scoring 8 goals. She played in every single match for Netherlands national team during UEFA Women’s Euro 2009, scoring the final penalty in the semis against France.
Her natural position is central defense, but she can play as a defensive midfielder as well.
Surprisingly, in the early years Anouk’s playing position was a striker/right wing. Her strong point were the dribbling abilities, she dribbled past many players and scored a lot of goals.
After that, she admits she switched to a number 10 position, then eventually turning into a controlling midfielder.
Her first coach names her as one of the most talented players she have worked with.
The WSL fixtures have been announced already, and Shelley Kerr’s side will face Notts County away, on Wednesday, April 16.
But, fortunately, for the impatient fans to see Noukie in action, will take only two days, as Arsenal Ladies play Derby County in pre-season friendlies, February 18.
Currently having our no. 6 at men’s side on fire, we all hope this number will carry the same consistency, solidness and bossing to our stunner new signing.
Apart from her immense passion for football and her talent, obviously she has another ability; hypnotize us with her exquisite hazel/green eyes, and force us drool over her athletic in-shape body.
A dream for every striker to be a target for the new Dutch goonerette. Hopefully she gets to celebrate the new season in London with a trophy.
Expecting the attendance to quadruple, Arsenal better get the ticket prices high.
Welcome to Arsenal, Anouk!
Thank you for reading.
Goonercore 