Charlton Athletic midfielder’s freestyle skills attract sizeable social media following – helped by Crystal Palace legend Ian Wright

Charlton Athletic midfielder Freda Ayisi is a box of tricks – with her freestyling skills earning her more than 175,000 followers on Instagram.

The 27-year-old was an FA Cup winner with Arsenal and also scored her first Champions League goal in her debut campaign, writes Richard Cawley.

Ayisi then had spells with Leicester City, Birmingham, London City Lionesses and Lewes before signing for the Addicks on a one-year deal in July.

Ayisi’s freestyling clips went viral after Arsenal and Crystal Palace legend Ian Wright commented on one.

“[Paul] Pogba has shared my video and when Ian Wright replied that blew up from there,” she said. “I’ve always done the tricks and little flicks growing up, from watching Ronaldinho.

“It kind of blossomed in lockdown. I was just bored and started making videos. When it came to actual tricks and tight ball control then Ronaldinho was the guy for me. I always used to watch him on YouTube.

“I just went to the park with friends and we were messing about, but I got it on camera and posted them on Instagram. People really enjoyed it.

“Most of the stuff I do isn’t too freestyle, it’s stuff a lot of people can do – so it’s relatable.”

Charlton host Ayisi’s former club Birmingham at The Valley on Sunday (2pm).

The Addicks have had a couple of weeks to digest their 4-3 home defeat to London City Lionesses last time out. Karen Hills’ side had fought back from 2-0 down to level by the hour mark but emerged pointless from the encounter at The Oakwood.

“I like playing against my old clubs,” said Ayisi. “I’m ready, the team is ready – hopefully we can get the result.

“We’ve started off okay. We’ve just got to stay consistent.”

Charlton will face Lewes, Bristol City and Crystal Palace in the League Cup.

PICTURES: KEITH GILLARD