Giddings, who spent seven years with Chelsea, moved to America and played for the University of Connecticut Huskies between 2009 and 2012.

After returning to England, the now 23-year-old signed for Ashford Town (Middlesex) Ladies before quickly making the move to IK Sirius based in Uppsala, Sweden.

But she is back in Blighty once again and on April 16 will lead Reading out at home against Yeovil Town Ladies as they embark on their first campaign in the newly introduced 10-team second tier of the Super League.

Giddings is joined by an array of glittering new additions including Wales internationals Helen Ward and Nicky Davies, as well as former Republic of Ireland captain Ciara Grant.

And the left-back-turned-midfielder this season insists it was last year’s triumph and the persuasive tones of new boss Jayne Ludlow that convinced her to jump aboard.

“The whole atmosphere of the club appealed to me – there is a great sense of solidarity within the club and the team is filled with confidence after winning the Women's Premier League Southern Division last season,” said Giddings.

“Everything has been coming together well, and Jayne has made sure she’s implemented her own philosophy about how we should play.

“We want to be competing at the top of the table but this season brings the unknown for all the teams in the division because of so many signings at all the clubs.”

Reading will face a tough test with the likes of Doncaster Rovers Belles, Aston Villa, Sunderland and Watford also in the second tier of the newly-formed WSL.

But with so much talent in the squad ambitions remain high, and Giddings is confident Reading will be challenging at the top of the table come the end of the season.

“Looking around the team I don’t think we have any weakness at all – even anybody that would come on as a substitute is capable of making a big impact,” Giddings added.

“We have real quality especially Helen [Ward] who brings such a fantastic reputation up front – and her scoring record and work rate will make a big difference.

“Also Ciara’s [Grant] experience at the back is also going to help in key moments during matches and Lois Roche in midfield brings great technical skill with her.

“For me Doncaster Belles and Sunderland are the two teams to watch but there’s no reason why we shouldn’t be up there competing with them.”

The FA Women's Super League has been newly expanded to two leagues for 2014. To watch all 18 clubs live in action buy tickets here: http://www.ticketstores.co.uk/fawsl