England U20’s defender Grace Fisk has joined West Ham United from the University of South Carolina.

Subject to international clearance, the former Millwall player will make her professional debut, having spent the past four years playing and studying in the USA. 

Originally born in Bromley, Fisk became a student at Penn State University in 2016 before establishing herself in the heart of South Carolina’s defence the following year. Some of her most recent achievements include a bronze medal at the U20’s world cup, inclusion in the All-SEC First Team, and the SEC Defensive Player of the Year.

West Ham head coach Matt Beard says he is delighted to add Fisk to his developing squad, having been a fan of her since his time coaching in America.

“Grace is a player who I've watched and tracked since my time with Boston Breakers and I am delighted she has decided to join us at West Ham,” Beard said. “She is a young, very talented defender with a maturity far beyond her years and she is already recognised within England set-up, such is her ability.”

Fisk will wear the number 22 for the Hammers and cannot wait to get started. “I am so excited to join West Ham United,” she said. “Once I came and had a look at the setup here, I knew straight away that this is where I would want to come and play.”

Beard has high hopes for Fisk’s future, stating that “I am looking forward to working with her for the remainder of the season and beyond.”