Star midfielder signs extension: Sophie Ingle stays at Chelsea

After the confirmation of the contract, Ingle spoke on what it means to stay with CFC, stating:

"“I’m really delighted to sign for Chelsea again. I feel like this club is home away from home. I’ve settled in from the very first moment that I signed about five years ago. I’m really delighted to continue this journey with this amazing club.”"

It is hard to see Hayes’ side without Ingle beyond this season due to how impressive she has been controlling the middle of the park for the Blues each time out. The age may be something that stands out when it comes to Ingle, but it is clear, there is no sign of regression anytime soon. Ingle has been a part of CFC during two stints of her career.

She was originally brought in by Matt Beard and the Blues as a left-back but grew into a position in the center of the pitch. After spending the next few seasons of her career in Bristol, and Liverpool, Ingle returned to west London where she has been since the 2018 season. 2.5 more years of Ingle for CFC assures that the Blues do not have to worry about yet another contract that expires at the conclusion of the season.

If it was not for Guro Reiten putting up 13 assists in all competitions, Ingle has a clear argument to be named the Chelsea Player of the Season at the halfway point. Since returning to the Blues, Ingle has started in 64 of the 75 domestic contests en route to helping CFC capture three straight WSL titles among several cups. She may not be the most vocal leader like Magdalena Eriksson, but Ingle is the exact calming presence in the midfield that this team needs in order to find consistent success through the number of competitions this club participates in.