Everton Academy graduates Abby Clarke and Annie Wilding have signed their first professional contracts with the Club.

Wilding, a well-rounded defender, has been in the Blues’ youth setup since the age of 12 and earned her Women’s Senior Team debut from manager Brian Sorensen in December 2022, starting the Continental Tyres League Cup clash against Durham.

Fellow graduate, Clarke, also made her debut in that contest and the forward was later handed her maiden WSL appearance in the final game of last season against Manchester City.

The 19-year-old, who joined Everton aged nine, explained to evertonfc.com that putting pen to paper on her first professional deal was a proud moment for her and her family.

"It's so special for us all," said Clarke. "I have been here from the age of nine, I have grown up with this club so to sign my first pro contract is a dream come true.

"I'm so proud and my aim now is to push on and develop my game. I know there's a big step to the best players in the Senior Team; I want to bridge that. Brian and his staff have been so helpful, which has included Chris [Assistant Head Coach, Chris Roberts] with my transition into the senior side."

Teammate Wilding echoed that pride while also acknowledging there is still plenty of work ahead to achieve her long-term Everton ambitions.

"This is everything I have ever wanted, from when I was a kid starting to play the game to now as a 19-year-old," she explained.

"I want to be like a sponge over these next few months, taking on all the information that's given to me. I want to keep improving and keep getting better.

"Someday I want to be a regular in Everton's Senior Team and I'm going to work hard to try to achieve that.”

On both players, manager Sorensen added: "I'm delighted both Abby and Annie have signed their first professional contracts with the Club.

"Both of them have worked hard to secure these deals. They know there is more work ahead of them but they have talent and the right character to push on. My coaching staff and I are looking forward to working more with both players."