Fran Hilton-Smith applauds Linda Motlhalo for returning abroad

The Randfontein-born midfield maestro spent a frustrating season in the USA with Racing Louisville in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), playing only three matches the entire campaign.

Motlhalo made more appearances for her country than for club during the same period and was unused in 23 fixtures for the American team.

“Linda had a lot of time on the bench, didn't play much so going back to Scotland is a fantastic move for her because it's tough. She's played over there before with Janine who has been training her now, so I think that's the best move she possibly could have done to go back to Scotland and compete before the CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON),” said Hilton Smith.

The reigning Scottish Women’s League champions announced Motlhalo’s return on Friday – back to a club where she made 34 appearances with four goals and was instrumental in helping them to the league title.

Glasgow City head coach Leane Ross was delighted to have Motlhalo back, saying she jumped at the opportunity to re-sign her.

“Linda is someone I know well from her time with the club previously and I'm excited to see what she will bring into the squad. When the opportunity to bring her back to Glasgow City came along it was an easy decision to make,” Ross told the club’s media department.

“A player with undoubted quality, Linda will bring an experience on the pitch and a personality off it which can only help us as we continue to work hard to achieve our goals for success this season.”

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The 26-year-old told the club’s website she was over the moon with the return to her happy hunting ground.

“I'm so happy to be back, this place brings back a lot of great memories. Glasgow will always be like a second home. When I first left Leanne and all the staff said if you ever want to come back this will always be home. I didn't even think twice when they called to say I could come back.”

With an eye on the upcoming WAFCON in July, Hilton-Smith says it was important for Motlhalo to return to competitive action.

“All these players, Linda, Thembi, Hilda, Jermaine – and we have quite a few playing overseas – are key and have to come back and bring that to Banyana. But you need a balanced team of course, and I think playing strong competition prior to the WAFCON is a priority,” added Hilton Smith.