Sydney FC names W-League squad

The Sky Blues have selected a squad which contains eight Australia internationals, three New Zealand internationals and six players who have represented Australia at underage level.

"We're thrilled with the team we have been able to put together for the 2012-2013 season," Stajcic said. "We have selected a younger team with pace, mobility and some of the most exciting players in Australian women’s football.

"We have been training well and we're really looking forward to the season kick off against Newcastle on 21 October."

Kyah Simon will captain the side in the absence of the injured Danielle Brogan (knee), while the club's CEO Tony Pignata has also hailed the sponsorship of natural health brand Blackmores, saying the deal is a 'testament to the growth and popularity of women's football'.

The Blackmores logo will be displayed on the front of the club's W-League and National Youth League strips.

Sydney FC finished third last season, losing out to Brisbane Roar on penalties in the semi-finals.

Sydney FC squad: Kyah Simon, Ellyse Perry, Caitlin Foord, Samantha Kerr, Renee Rollason, Alanna Kennedy, Teresa Polias, Nicola Bolger, Emma Kete, Hannah Bromley, Annalie Longo, Sian McLaren, Brittany Whitfield, Amy Harrison, Sham Khamis, Elizabeth Ralston, Megan McLaughlin, Chloe Logarzo, Larissa Crummer, Natalie Tobin