Niamh Charles is one of the most versatile and dynamic players in English football, excelling as a full-back and winger for Chelsea and the England national team. Renowned for her pace, adaptability, and attacking instincts, she has become a regular starter for club and country, winning multiple major trophies and earning recognition as one of the WSL’s top defenders.
Early Life and Background
Born on June 21, 1999, in Wirral, Merseyside, England, Charles began playing with West Kirby Wasps and often competed with boys’ teams until age 14. She joined Liverpool’s youth academy after a successful trial, choosing the Reds over local rivals Everton13.
Club Career
Liverpool
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Made her senior debut for Liverpool in April 2016 as a forward.
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Played 48 league matches and scored 6 goals for Liverpool from 2016 to 202016.
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Nominated for the Women’s Rising Star award at the Northwest Football Awards after an impressive 2016 season.
Chelsea
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Signed for Chelsea in 2020 following Liverpool’s relegation.
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Transitioned from winger to full-back/wing-back under Emma Hayes, playing on both flanks12.
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Won the WSL title in each of her first four seasons, plus three FA Cups and two League Cups, and was a Champions League finalist in 20211.
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Named to the WSL Team of the Year in 2023–24 after helping Chelsea to a fourth consecutive league title1.
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Suffered a dislocated shoulder in September 2024 but returned to action in December 202415.
International Career
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Represented England at U17, U19, and U20 levels, starring at the 2016 U17 EURO and U17 World Cup135.
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Made her senior England debut in April 2021 and has since become a regular in Sarina Wiegman’s squads13.
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Part of the England squad that won two Arnold Clark Cups and finished as World Cup runners-up in 20231.
Achievements and Honors
Club Honors
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Women’s Super League: 4 titles (Chelsea)
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FA Cup: 3 titles (Chelsea)
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League Cup: 2 titles (Chelsea)
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UEFA Women’s Champions League: Runner-up (2021, Chelsea)
International Honors
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Arnold Clark Cup: 2 titles (England)
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FIFA Women’s World Cup: Runner-up (2023, England)
Playing Style and Strengths
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Exceptionally versatile: can play as a full-back, wing-back, or winger on either flank137.
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Renowned for her pace, dribbling, and ability to deliver dangerous crosses7.
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Strong defensively and effective going forward, stretching opposition defenses and creating space for teammates7.
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Comfortable with both feet and praised for her work rate and tactical intelligence3.
Career Stats (as of April 2025)
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Date of Birth: June 21, 1999
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Age: 25
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Height: 1.72 m
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Position: Full-back / Winger
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Current Club: Chelsea FC Women
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Club Number: 21
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Liverpool Appearances: 48 (6 goals)
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Chelsea Appearances: 86 (8 goals)1
Frequently Asked Questions About Niamh Charles
How old is Niamh Charles?
She is 25 years old, born on June 21, 1999.
What position does Niamh Charles play?
She plays as a full-back and winger for Chelsea and the England national team.
What are Niamh Charles’s major achievements?
Her honors include four WSL titles, three FA Cups, two League Cups with Chelsea, and a World Cup runner-up medal with England.
What makes Niamh Charles stand out?
Her pace, versatility, dribbling, and ability to impact both attack and defense on either flank.
Conclusion
Niamh Charles’s journey from the Wirral to starring for Chelsea and England highlights her adaptability, skill, and relentless drive. With her technical quality and tactical intelligence, she is set to remain a key figure in English and European football for years to come.
