Brighton sign Hawkesby from Sydney FC

Brighton have confirmed the signing of Australian Mackenzie Hawkesby from Sydney FC.

The 23-year-old midfielder has previously shared a pitch with her new Brighton teammate Madison Haley, while they led Sydney FC to a league title victory earlier this year.

Hawkesby began her career at Western Sydney Wanderers before moving to Sydney FC for three seasons.

After a brief stint with Sydney Olympic, she returned to Sydney FC last season. This latest transfer marks Brighton's fourth signing of the transfer window.

Hawkesby's skills have not only been recognized at the club level. She earned call-ups to the Australian national team for two friendly matches against Spain and Portugal in 2022.

Brighton's head coach, Melissa Phillips, expressed excitement over Hawkesby's arrival, stating, “We are excited that Mackenzie is joining us. She’s a versatile player and had great success last season with Sydney FC where she played alongside Madison Haley."

Phillips added, "She’s an eager player with a lot of hunger when she’s on the ball and we’re delighted to welcome her to Albion.”