Star A-League Women keeper declares for New Zealand

Reds shot-stopper Claudia Jenkins, who shares both Australian and New Zealand eligibility, has chosen to make herself eligible for selection to the Football Ferns squad.

Jenkins has had a stellar season, starting every single Adelaide United game this season in the A-League Women, conceding a league fourth best 21 goals en route to the Reds’ current third place position.

This decision means that Jenkins will be available for selection to the New Zealand squad ahead of their April 8th clash with Chinese Taipei in Taiwan.

It’s an opportunity Jenkins is looking forward to, and she told New Zealand Football she took the offer as quickly as she could.

“I’m really excited at the prospect of potentially being selected for the Football Ferns,” she said.

“As soon as I was aware this was a possibility I jumped at the opportunity and look forward to being involved if I am lucky enough to be selected.”

The decision comes after conversations between Jenkins and Football Ferns head coach Michael Mayne, who said he can’t wait to see what she brings to the team.

“Over the last few months we have cast the net really wide to look at who is potentially eligible to wear the Fern and have had some really good conversations with players keen to represent Aotearoa New Zealand,” he said.

“It is great to potentially be able to name Claudia in our next squad after a great season so far with Adelaide United where she has started every game. 

“She will be a great addition to the group and, from speaking to her, can’t wait to be involved if she is selected.”

Jenkins will be back in action for Adelaide this Sunday, March 16th, in a top of the table clash away to league leaders Melbourne City.

Listen to the latest episode of The Dubcast, Round Ball Australia’s Women’s Football podcast on Spotify, Apple, or watch on YouTube, with new episodes every Wednesday.