Ford Football Ferns Unveil Squad for Chinese Taipei Clash

New Faces and Returning Stars Strengthen the Lineup for April Match

The Ford Football Ferns have announced their 22-player squad for the upcoming international fixture against Chinese Taipei, featuring two debutants and the return of key players.

Fresh Talent Between the Posts

Adelaide United’s Claudia Jenkins and University of Denver’s Alina Santos earn their first call-ups, adding fresh depth to the goalkeeper lineup. Jenkins has been a standout in the A-League Women this season, while Santos’ selection highlights her strong performances in the U.S. collegiate system.

Key Players Return

After missing the previous tour, Jana Radosavljević (C.S. Marítimo) and Grace Wisnewski (Lexington SC) rejoin the squad, bringing valuable experience and versatility to the midfield.

Full Squad List

Defenders:

• Liz Anton (Canberra United, AUS)
• Claudia Bunge (Melbourne Victory, AUS)
• Michaela Foster (Durham FC, ENG)
• Grace Neville (London City Lionesses, ENG)
• Kate Taylor (Dijon FCO, FRA)

Midfielders:

• Hannah Blake (Durham FC, ENG)
• Maya Hahn (FFC Turbine Potsdam, GER)
• Katie Kitching (Sunderland AFC, ENG)
• Annalie Longo (Wellington Phoenix, NZ)
• Ruby Nathan (Canberra United, AUS)
• Emma Pijnenburg (Feyenoord Rotterdam, NED)
• Grace Wisnewski (Lexington SC, USA)

Forwards:

• Kelli Brown (Perth Glory, AUS)
• Milly Clegg (Halifax Tides FC, CAN)
• Jacqui Hand (Sheffield United, ENG)
• Indiah-Paige Riley (Crystal Palace, ENG)
• Jana Radosavljević (C.S. Marítimo, POR)

Goalkeepers:

• Victoria Esson (Rangers FC, SCO)
• Claudia Jenkins (Adelaide United, AUS)
• Alina Santos (University of Denver, USA)

Several players—Mackenzie Barry, Geo Candy, Brianna Edwards, Macey Fraser, and Grace Jale—are unavailable due to injuries and squad rotations.

Coach’s Perspective

Interim head coach Michael Mayne is focused on maintaining momentum after a productive tour in Costa Rica.

“I was pleased with the progress we made in Costa Rica… I’m looking forward to continuing our work to build a new and exciting performance culture,” Mayne said.

Match Details

• Opponent: Chinese Taipei
• Date: Tuesday, April 8
• Venue: Kaohsiung Nanzih Football Stadium, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
• Kickoff: 10:30 PM NZT (6:30 PM local time)
• Additional Fixture: A closed-door training match on Saturday, April 5