Kirby is one of the most renowned footballers across the globe, known for being technically gifted and clinical in front of goal. Since joining from Reading in 2015, the 29-year-old has been influential in our success while becoming the club’s top goalscorer as she approaches eight years in blue.

With 110 goals in 175 appearances for Chelsea, Kirby has enjoyed a trophy-laden career helping to add 13 trophies to our cabinet with five Women’s Super League titles, four FA Cups, two League Cups, one Community Shield and the WSL Spring Series to her name.

As well as collective success, Kirby has received numerous personal accolades at Chelsea. After 25 goals in all competitions in 2017/18, she won the PFA and FWA Player of the Year awards – the first to win the female version of the latter – and the club’s Women’s Player and Players’ Player of the Year.

Once again, her performances warranted individual recognition in 2020/21. She was named Chelsea Women’s Player of the Year, Barclays WSL Player of the Season and PFA Players’ Player of the Year – an award decided by votes from fellow professional footballers.

On the international stage, Kirby was part of the history-making Lionesses squad who won the European Championship last summer, becoming an inspirational figure for the next generation who dream of emulating her success.

We look forward to seeing Fran back in blue next season.