Chelsea capture England duo

England duo Eniola Aluko and Casey Stoney have joined FA Women's Premier League side Chelsea LFC after leaving Charlton Athletic WFC.

Charlton demise
The future of Charlton, third in the Premier League and FA Women's Cup finalists last season, looks in doubt after the withdrawal of funds by the men's club following their own relegation from the English top flight. And with the new season due to begin on 19 August, and the World Cup in China running from 10-30 September, 20-year-old striker Aluko and ex-Charlton captain and defender Stoney have opted to sign for the ambitious Blues, who start their campaign against UEFA Women's Cup contenders Everton LFC.

Signings
Chelsea manager Shaun Gore said: "Casey and Eniola are both outstanding players in the women's game and are an asset to our growing club." Also moving to Chelsea for next season are youth internationals Sian Larkin and Danielle Buet from champions and UEFA Women's Cup holders Arsenal LFC, and Millwall Lionesses LFC midfielder Clare Rafferty.