Millwall Lionesses’ summer of change continues as two key players move on

BY RICHARD CAWLEY

Millwall Lionesses’ summer of change has continued with Leighanne Robe and Ashlee Hincks both opting to move on.

The Championship outfit saw boss Lee Burch leave last month and join Yeovil Town Ladies, who are in the top tier of WSL 1. 

Centre-back Robe has also made a switch to the same level with the 24-year-old signing a deal with Liverpool Ladies, who are managed by former Charlton Athletic midfielder Neil Redfearn. 

Robe joined the Lionesses in 2016 from Watford Ladies. 

She said: “It is a massive opportunity to make the step up to WSL1 and I am really excited for the new season.” 

Crystal Palace Ladies – who play a division below Millwall in the FA Women’s National League Southern Division – have moved to land striker Hincks. 

The Eagles unsuccessfully applied for Championship status when the leagues were restructured this summer. Palace chairman Richard Spokes described the capture of Hincks as “a statement of intent for our club”. 

He added: “We’re determined to show we are maintaining our ambition, despite recent disappointments. 

“With the full support of Crystal Palace [men’s team] signing a proven tier-two player shows we are looking up, not down.” 

Hincks said: “I spoke to a couple of clubs but this one really stood out to me – the ambition on and off the pitch really suited me. 

“I’ve played the game at the top level for a long time. I do bring experience and I do bring goals to any team that I play for – goals and assists. I can probably just help the girls all over the pitch with my leadership and communication skills. 

“I want to hit the ground running. The main thing is we get promoted. Everyone has got to be playing well as a collective for us to do that.”

IMAGES BY BRIAN TONKS