Super Falcons defender Ashleigh Plumptre has been handed a major vote of confidence by Saudi Women’s outfit Al-Ittihad Ladies after signing a fresh contract extension that will keep her at the club until 2028, Footynaija.com reports.
The new agreement comes despite the Nigerian international having been sidelined since March with a foot injury, echoing the club’s belief in the influential defender who has established herself as one of Al-Ittihad’s standout performers since arriving from Leicester City in September 2023.
Announcing the renewal on social media, Al-Ittihad celebrated the news with the captions “The story continues” and “Ashley Palmer continues with the Brigadier until 2028,” confirming that Plumptre’s stay in Jeddah has been extended by a further year after her previous contract had been due to expire in 2027.
Ashleigh Plumptre at Al-Ittihad so far
The 28-year-old has more than justified the club’s faith during her time in Saudi Arabia. Since joining on a free transfer, Plumptre has contributed an impressive 15 goals and 19 assists in just 41 appearances across all competitions.
Although injury curtailed her involvement last season, the former Leicester City star still managed 10 Saudi Women’s Premier League appearances and supplied four assists before being forced onto the sidelines.
The setback ultimately denied Plumptre the chance to represent Nigeria at this month’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, with the Super Falcons defender recently admitting her body “asked for more time” as she chose to prioritise a full recovery over risking a premature return to action.
However, there appears to be light at the end of the tunnel, with Plumptre revealing that her rehabilitation is progressing well and that she is edging closer to making her comeback.
Her latest contract extension not only secures her future at Al-Ittihad until 2028 but also serves as a strong indication of the club’s confidence that she will return to anchor their defence once again when the new season gets underway.
