Sam Kerr, Hayley Raso and Chloe Logarzo lead influx of Aussie players heading to English clubs

Sam Kerr set the trend but with at least three players following in the January transfer window, the Aussie influence in the English game has never been greater - and, according to Claire Polkinghorne, the Matildas will be the beneficiaries.

Matilda's player Clare Polkinghorne speaks to the media during a press conference at Mrs. Macquaries Chair in Sydney, Monday, February 3, 2020. (AAP Image/Bianca De Marchi) NO ARCHIVING

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The European influx of star Matildas will result in a better national team, according to veteran defender Clare Polkinghorne.

Superstar forward Sam Kerr’s big-money move to English Women’s Super League club Chelsea has opened the floodgates to Australian talent.

International teammates Chloe Logarzo (Bristol City), Caitlin Foord (Arsenal) and Hayley Raso (Everton) all joined English teams in the January transfer window.

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Caitlin Foord has signed on with Arsenal.

With uncapped youngster Jacynta Galabadaarachchi already at West Ham, it means there are now five Australians on English club rosters.

Experienced forward Lisa de Vanna has been with Italian team Fiorentina since August, while Alex Chidiac has been with Spanish champions Atletico Madrid since 2018.

More Australians are expected to move to Europe’s leagues in coming months as the women’s game hits new heights in the continent.

Teenage phenomenon Mary Fowler left Adelaide United last week and is expected to join French team Montpellier, while Steph Catley has been linked to a move to England in the next transfer window, with Arsenal her likely destination.

Even Polkinghorne - who has picked up over 100 caps for Australia since her debut in 2006 - is taking on a European challenge with a move to Norwegian team Avaldsnes alongside Brisbane Roar teammate Katrina Gorry.

Clare Polkinghorne says the overseas exodus is good for the Matildas future.

The pair will head to their new club at the end of the current W-League season and Polkinghorne believes the moves are only good news for the Matildas.

“As footballers you’re always wanting to better yourself and challenge yourself,” she said.

“It’s good to see that players are taking up the opportunity to play in England and to challenge themselves in a different league.

“It’s definitely going to improve us as a national team.”

Originally published as Sam Kerr, Hayley Raso and Chloe Logarzo lead influx of Aussie players heading to English clubs