A-League Women newcomers Western United have locked in their quota of internationals for their inaugural season by signing Guyana defender Sydney Cummings.
The 23-year-old joins American goalkeeper Hillary Beall (on-loan from Racing Louisville), Philippines midfielder Jaclyn Sawicki and American striker Hannah Keane as United's internationals.
United can still sign a guest marquee in addition to their four full-time internationals.
"The league in Australia has always been talked about so highly, and I felt like it was such a great opportunity for me to try to elevate myself as a player," Cummings said.
"I'm really excited for that aspect and that challenge of being in Australia and learning more from the people there."
Cummings was a national team replacement player for San Diego Wave but is yet to make her NWSL debut.
Coach Mark Torcaso expected Cummings to lead United's defence.
"Sydney is incredibly tall, incredibly strong and athletic and will be a physically dominant force in the A-League," Torcaso said.
"In addition to those strengths she also reads the game superbly well and has all of the top-level awareness and ball-playing skills that you want in a centre-back.
"Even though she is only 23 years of age she has great experience under her belt, so she will be brilliant in helping lead our younger players at the back and contribute from the start."
On-loan Matildas midfielder Chloe Logarzo is United's most high-profile signing to date ahead of their November 19 season opener against reigning champions Melbourne Victory.
