Natasha Thomas signs for Wrexham. Credit: Wrexham AFC
Wrexham AFC Women completed the signing of Jamaica forward Natasha Thomas on Friday, 3 July, with the former Ipswich Town forward explaining at The Rock why the move felt like the right next step in her career.
Her arrival gives Wrexham another proven forward before a historic UEFA Women’s Champions League campaign later this month.
It also brings a player with serious pedigree. Thomas left Ipswich as their record appearance maker and all time leading scorer.
That made her first interview important. It showed why Wrexham AFC Women now appeal to players with senior domestic and international experience.
Thomas says Wrexham felt like the right club
The 30 year old told Wrexham AFC Women that the move had to feel right for both sides.
“I’m really excited for myself. I always knew I wanted to make sure it was the right club for me, but also I’m the right person for the club as well. And yeah, I’m here now. I’ve got all my belongings here, so it’s really starting to make it feel real.”
That answer matters. Thomas has not moved lightly after more than a decade at Ipswich.
She scored 175 goals in 260 appearances for the Tractor Girls.
“I think for me of course I’ve been there for 11 years and for me I think it was just the next step in my journey. Obviously it will always be within my heart but I’m here at Wrexham now and I’m going to make sure I play for the badge.”
The Racecourse and The Rock made an impression
Thomas had already been following Wrexham closely. She said last season’s success was a major part of the attraction.
“Yeah, absolutely. I think I’ve been looking at Wrexham previously anyway. We were obviously winning last year. I think that was a big thing for me as well. I always like to win silverware and things, and I think I can do that here with the club.”
Her visit to the Racecourse and The Rock helped settle the decision.
“I popped down a few weeks ago just to see The Rock and everywhere, and it was amazing and I think that is probably what really swayed me to come here.”
“You can feel the warmth and the togetherness when you walk through the doors. Obviously, I came when all the works were happening. Now it’s obviously coming together a little bit more. It looks beautiful and I think I’m really going to be at home here.”
Sugarman adds experience for Europe
Head coach Jenny Sugarman has added Thomas after the arrivals of Lucy Farrell and Mikayla Cook.
Clwb Pêl-droed quoted Sugarman describing Thomas as a player of “experience and quality” who can help elevate the team further.
Thomas also spoke warmly about Sugarman’s role in the move.
“No, she’s a really good person. And for me, it was how comfortable she made me feel when I came over here. It wasn’t any pushing, oh, please come here, like pushing me to come here. It was genuineness.”
There is a clear football fit too. Thomas described herself as a fast player who likes to score goals.
Jamaica and Champions League goals now align
Thomas also brings international experience. BBC Sport noted that she has made six appearances for Jamaica.
“It’s been amazing, to be honest. I never thought I’d be playing for my nation, Jamaica, but when I got the call-up, it was against France. I wasn’t expecting to get on the pitch at all, but I made my debut there. And ever since, I’ve been getting called up to every camp.”
“Yeah, that’s the goal. That’s ultimately the goal. And I know Wrexham can play a big part in that, in my personal football here at club. And that can help push me to when we have to play Costa Rica in the next part of qualifying for the World Cup.”
The Champions League was another clear factor in the move.
“I’ve never played in the Champions League and that was definitely a little cherry on top as well to why I did sign here as well because I think I can help with that, help support the team, push on and get as far as we can.”
For Wrexham, this signing fits the moment. Thomas brings goals, experience and a clear understanding of what the badge now represents.
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