Captain Turner to leave Everton

Captain Danielle Turner will depart Everton following the conclusion of her contract at the end of this month, having given 15 years of fine service to the Club.

Joining the Women’s Academy aged 15, the defender has played a pivotal role in Everton’s success over the past decade, playing in two FA Cup finals, winning the Championship title to seal promotion back to the Women’s Super League in 2017, and captaining the team for the past five years.

“I think I’ve felt every emotion possible in the past couple of weeks,” said the 30-year-old.

“There’s a great deal of sadness when you’ve been at a club for 15 years and spent half of your life there.

“It’s always going to be difficult to say goodbye.

“This has been one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make.

“Everyone knows how much this club means to me.

“Once you play for Everton, it touches your heart.

“You get this feeling and that’s why I’ve been at this club for such a long time.”

When reflecting on her standout moments, 2017 holds a lot of significance for Turner.

Having won the Women's Championship, Turner signed her first professional contract later that year and was named Club Captain.

“That was a massive summer for the Club, in turning professional,” Turner added. “My dream became a reality in becoming a professional footballer.

“Getting the captaincy, too – to lead the girls out on numerous occasions is up there with one of the proudest times of my career.

“It’s something I’ll always look back and be very proud of.”

A loyal servant to the Club, Turner thanked Evertonians for their support throughout the years.

“They’ve stuck by me personally and all the other girls through thick and thin, no matter what,” she added.

“I’ll always be grateful for that. I’ll never forget that.

“I’m just sorry I didn’t get a chance to say a proper goodbye but I’m sure I’ll see them again in the future and be able to show my gratitude to them, because they are unbelievable.

“They are second to none and I’m sure they will continue to support the girls no matter what in the future.

“I’m so grateful for the support they’ve shown me throughout my time here.”

In a tearful goodbye, Turner expressed how Everton will also be a key part of her life.

“Everton will always, always hold a massive place in my heart,” she expressed.

“The Club will always be the most significant part of my career, and nothing will ever take that away from me.

“I’m honestly so honoured and grateful to have played for this club for so long.

“No matter where I am, I’ll always be a fan.”

Everton would like to thank Dan for her loyal service and everyone at the Club wishes her success for the future.