‘This Is The Best Club For Me’ – Ruby’s Foxes Return
The England Under-23s international has signed permanently on a two-year contract and is a major coup for the Football Club having spent the majority of her career in the Barclays Women’s Super League at Manchester City and in Arsenal’s Academy.
The close-knit environment and family atmosphere, as well as a fresh opportunity to display her talents at the highest level, were both key reasons behind the 20-year-old believing that Leicester City was the best move for her to make at this stage.
“It’s a bit surreal right now, I’m a little overwhelmed, but I’m so happy to be back,” Mace revealed, speaking from inside the team’s training complex at Belvoir Drive. “When I came here, first of all, it just felt like a family as soon as I walked through the door.
“Everyone was so welcoming and I was allowed to express myself on the pitch and showcase what I can do. I think this is the best Club for me to do that, so I’m happy to be here.”
Impressive showings during her 11 appearances for City two seasons ago certainly caught the attention of the Foxes faithful, helping to maintain the Club’s WSL status. Now 12 months further on her development as a player, there’s plenty more to come from the London-born midfielder.
The youngster reflected: “When I first came here, we were in a relegation battle, and I’m so happy I lived through that moment and have seen them succeed ever since. I just want to carry on that journey and now finally being a part of it feels so good.
“It’s been a long time coming but I can’t wait to get started. I’m ready to go now and I’m ready to push on. Hopefully I can give a good show because, for me, it’s very important [to get minutes] at this stage of my career.
“Leicester gave me the platform to do that so hopefully I can prove myself again and give the best I can for the team this year as well. I just want to do my best, give it my all and help to push the team as far as we can go.”
A central midfielder by trade, Mace has also been utilised in more defensive roles and outlined the qualities that she will look to bring to the squad once reunited with former team-mates from her loan spell at the Club just over a year ago.
“I like to play in the centre defensive midfield role,” Mace explained. “I feel like I’m a very composed player and I have a lot to offer. I’m a very hard-working player as well, I’ll always give 110 per cent. I’ve just got to work really hard now and prove that.”