West Ham have signed former England under 20 defender Grace Fisk in a bid to bolster their squad ahead of the second half of the Women's Super League season.

The 21-year-old graduated from the University of South Carolina in December and is now turning professional with The Hammers.

And Fisk is keen to start her career with the WSL club, who currently sit eighth in the table, seven points above the relegation place.

“I am so excited to join West Ham United," she said.

“Once I came and had a look at the set up here, I knew straight away that this was where I would want to come and play.

“I’ve been impressed with what I’ve seen from West Ham in the first half of the season. There’s some real quality in this team and some nice, friendly people as well. I can’t wait to get started.”

West Ham boss Matt Beard spent some time managing out in America back in 2016/17 and so has been keeping tabs on the defender for some time.

He said: “Grace is a player who I've watched and tracked since my time with Boston Breakers and I am delighted she has decided to join us at West Ham.

“She is a young, very talented defender with a maturity far beyond her years and she is already recognised within the England set up, such is her ability.

“I am looking forward to working with her for the remainder of the season and beyond.”

The Hammers resume their WSL campaign on January 5 when they host Everton.