Alisha Lehmann sends message to new Aston Villa team-mate Noelle Maritz after completion of Arsenal transfer

Arsenal confirmed that Maritz had left the club to join Aston Villa in a permanent move. The Gunners, with a squad pushing the registration limit, needed to free space in their ranks to make room for the expected arrival of United States defender, Emily Fox. The Gunners' loss has become Villa's gain as the Swiss international joins to try to help propel the side away from the threat of relegation.

Posting on her Instagram story, Lehmann said: "Welcome my friend!"

Instagram (alishalehmann7)

Maritz's move to Aston Villa is one which suits all parties. The defender had been struggling for minutes in the Women's Super League this season and wanted to secure more game-time. Villa are able to add depth at full-back and Maritz will compete with Sarah Mayling for the starting right-back spot. Meanwhile, Arsenal can free up some much-needed space to complete the signing of Fox - who can hope to offer the Gunners greater defensive solidity in the second half of the season.

Aston Villa return for action after the winter break in the women's FA Cup against Everton on January 13, where Swiss team-mates, Lehmann and Maritz, will hope to play together once again.