Wales’ all-time record goal scorer Helen Ward has moved to London Bees on a temporary basis.
The 34-year-old forward is moving to the FA Women’s Championship outfit on a short-term deal from Watford.
Ward makes the move from the Hornets, due to their season currently being on pause, due to the Level Four restrictions in England, which has seen non-elite football on a hiatus.
She joins a side currently ninth in the Championship and she could make her debut when they host Sheffield United at The Hive on February 7.
“I’m very grateful to Lee Burch and London Bees for allowing me to dual sign on a temporary basis,” said Ward to Watford’s official website, following her move across London.
“They have a squad full of talented players and if I can help in any way while I’m there I would be delighted to do so.
“I am very much committed to Watford. I have international aspirations to consider and by training and playing regularly with Bees, I hope to be in a good position if selected for Wales over the next few weeks.”
“The players and staff at London Bees have been very welcoming and I look forward to working with them during my time at the club.
“Beyond this, I hope everyone is staying safe and I look forward getting back to London Colney and Kings Langley with all the team at Watford as soon as we can.”
The move will allow her to train on a full-time basis which will allow her to prolong her international career with Wales.
Her move to the Bees will see her link up with Wales teammates Charlie Estcourt and Evie Gane.
Ward has amassed 89 caps for Wales and has scored 42 goals in the process, putting her at the top of the goalscoring charts in both the men and women’s game.
Commenting on the Bees’ latest addition, manager Lee Burch said to their official website: “Helen is a top professional, she has been there, seen it and done it. She’s fully committed to Watford but with the pandemic, this has given us an opportunity to bring her in. The deal works for all parties, we haven’t scored enough goals this year, Helen will bring that both on the pitch and the training ground.
He added: “I’m really pleased she’s here and she is really excited about the opportunity to continue playing, obviously she is looking to force herself into the Welsh national side.
“We’re really appreciative of Watford for their understanding of the situation and we’re excited to see her go and put on a Bees shirt. There is no doubt she will score some goals for us during the period she is here with us.”
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