Oxford United Women are pleased to announce the arrival of Taome Oliver for her second spell at the club.
The former England Under-20 international has penned a deal for 2020/21 with Liam Gilbert’s side to become United’s fifth new summer signing. Having enjoyed a successful 2017/18 season with The U’s, scoring three times in 20 appearances, Oliver was delighted to be returning to Court Place Farm.
“I’m really excited about the prospect of playing for the club again, it’s great to be back in training with the girls and I’m looking forward to be playing under Liam.
“The group of girls that are still here that I used to play with is one of the best aspects of the club, just the team mentality and the ethos. What Liam’s trying to bring into the team and develop is really positive looking forwards.”
The 23-year-old midfielder describes herself as determined and unselfish, adding that she likes “passing the ball and being in and around the play.” However, this season Oliver aims to be the one getting on the scoresheet.“This year I want to score more goals! Like I said I like to pop the ball off to teammates quite a lot, so I will try to be a little bit more selfish in front of goal. But to be honest, I just want to work for the team. There’s a lot of competition in the team right now, so securing that starting spot and helping the team to achieve our goals is the main focus.”
Oliver progressed through Birmingham City’s Centre of Excellence before going on to play for Arsenal Women and Notts County Ladies in the time before her first spell with The U’s and has since played for Leicester City Women in the FA Women’s Championship.
“I’ve had my ups and downs with injuries and everything like that, but since I was last here I’d say that I have matured a bit.
“At previous clubs I have gained valuable experience, and I think coming into this Oxford team it’s a case of getting in, bonding with the girls and working together as a unit to push forwards.”
After penning her deal with United, Oliver made it clear that the club’s high ambitions to achieve promotion to the Women’s Championship this season was one of the main factors in the decision to link up with Liam Gilbert’s squad.
“I think it was a combination of decisions that made me want to sign again. Obviously the fact that we’re aiming for promotion is really key in that, but after having talks with Liam, I’m really keen to play under him.
“So far, pre-season has been so much fun, I’ve enjoyed every minute of it.I trained a bit prior to signing and that helped me make my mind up so much; the quality and intensity in training has been really good.”