Sophie Hillyerd joins Watford FC Women on loan

London City Lionesses can confirm that goalkeeper Sophie Hillyerd has joined Watford FC Women on loan until the end of the 2025/26 season.

The 22-year-old links up with the FA Women's National League Southern Premier Division side once more following a short loan spell with the Hornets in October 2025.

Hillyerd joined London City Lionesses in July 2023 on a two-year deal from West Ham United, bringing with her a solid foundation built at Bristol City, Manchester United and Charlton Athletic, which earnt her an England U19s call-up. 

Shortly after arriving, Hillyerd suffered a knee injury in a pre-season friendly that would keep her sidelined for the best part of two years. Three surgeries later, she marked her long-awaited return against FC Twente in a pre-season friendly in August 2025 and signed a new contract ahead of London City’s debut WSL season. 

Everyone at London City Lionesses wishes Sophie the very best during her time at Watford, and we look forward to seeing her progress in the second half of the season.