Alex returns to home town roots

Alex Culvin in action for Everton Ladies; YouTube: Arsenal v Leeds United, FA Cup Final 2008

Tough-tackling defender Alex Culvin, has been plying her trade for many years within the successful ranks of Leeds United, but recently, when the call came to return to her beloved city of Liverpool, the 26 year old Scouser found the opportunity was too good to miss.

Speaking after signing for Everton Ladies, she said: "It was a hard decision to leave as Leeds was like home for me. Everton came in and I thought it would be an advantage for my career. I want to improve myself as a player and playing with top internationals and competing at the top level. I am grateful to Everton for this opportunity, but also grateful to Leeds for six great years. I left on good terms and wish them all the best in the future."

Women’s game supremos Arsenal have continued their relentless trophy and league attack throughout the last ten years of the sport, and Alex admires them tremendously. She said: "Arsenal are a great team and playing against them is always a hard game... they are players at the top of their game. They have been a big force in the women’s game as long as I have been playing, which ultimately improves your ability. As a player, big games is where you want to be.

"I played two FA Cup Finals and one League Cup Final, losing all three. We battled well but ultimately their experience and quality showed. I hope the next final I play won't be so painful! Teams are now slowly starting to compete with Arsenal, all of which is excellent for women's football."

Recently, Alex has been playing an attacking role in the left-wing position with success, as Everton are making a fight for the league title. She said: "My preferred position is left back, but have been playing a few games at left wing. I've got a little bit of pace so I can play there if needed. Everton already have excellent players in every position, so I will play anywhere I'm required. Just to get on the pitch and play games; that's the important thing."

For the future, Alex has already started taking her FA badges and doing a lot of regular coaching. "Hopefully I have another 10 good years' playing in me," she predicted. "The womens game already has top women's coaches, with my manager at Everton Mo Marley and obviously England's Head Coach, Hope Powell. It would be an ambition of mine to stay in the game and be part of its growth."