Naomi Lawrence began playing football at the age of seven with Black Panthers before progressing into the Derby County pathway.

She went on to represent Derby County Academy, the reserves and the Women’s first team before later playing for Manchester Metropolitan University Women’s first team, FC United and West Didsbury & Chorlton.

Among the proudest moments of Naomi’s career so far is receiving an England call-up.

She has also represented Derbyshire CSFA, helping the county side win the County Cup in 2017.

Naomi joined Wanderers after exploring a number of options for the next stage of her career. Following conversations with the management team and the opportunity to train with the squad, she felt the environment and the club’s ambitions aligned closely with what she was looking for.

A direct, composed striker and natural goalscorer, Naomi believes one of her biggest strengths is her adaptability. Rather than being restricted to one particular style of play, she is comfortable adjusting her approach depending on the demands of the game and what the team needs.

Her ambitions with Wanderers are to progress as much as possible, both individually and alongside the team.

Get to know Naomi

Naomi’s biggest footballing influence growing up was her brother. Having played football at a high level himself, he would regularly train with her in the back garden, push her to improve and always believed she could excel in the game.

Some of her earliest football memories come from watching Sunday League matches involving members of her family. Naomi particularly enjoyed seeing players of different levels come together to play, whatever the conditions.

Away from the pitch, she has a strong interest in psychology and understanding human behaviour. Naomi has completed a degree in Psychology and is continuing her studies with a Master’s degree in Mental Health and Wellbeing.

She also works as a careers adviser in secondary schools, helping young people understand the pathways available to them and how they can achieve their goals.

Naomi keeps things relaxed before matches, preferring to arrive with a clear head rather than think too deeply about the game before stepping onto the pitch.

And something Wanderers supporters might not expect? Despite playing the game herself, Naomi says she doesn’t particularly enjoy watching football.

Favourite food: Seafood boil
Favourite film / TV series: The Parent Trap / The Big Bang Theory
Favourite artist: Skeete
Favourite holiday destination: Jamaica
Favourite other sport: Basketball
Favourite football stadium: Old Trafford
Pet: A cat
Tea or coffee: Neither
Morning person or night owl: Night owl
Sweet or savoury: Sweet
Social media: TikTok
Ideal day off: Doing absolutely nothing all day, followed by a seafood boil
Couldn’t live without: Napping
Away from football: Observant, easy-going and forgetful