Japan international Riko Ueki is excited to play her football in Europe after signing for West Ham.

The striker, 24, joins the Hammers from Japanese side Tokyo Verdy Beleza and expects to be able to improve as a player in the Women's Super League. 

She said: "West Ham United is a team steeped in history and I'm really happy to be signing for such a great club.

"When I made the decision to join, I felt I needed to test myself in Europe. I think I will be able to improve as a footballer here and in doing so, do my best for the team as well.

"I have been in contact with [Japanese West Ham players] Honoka Hayashi and Risa Shimizu and they were both really happy, encouraging and supportive of this move.

"I'm now looking forward to meeting my other team-mates and getting started in claret and blue."

Ueki has made 25 appearances for Japan and featured in every game for her country at the 2023 World Cup, scoring twice.

And Hammers boss Rehanne Skinner is delighted to add a player of such pedigree to her ranks.

Skinner said: "Riko is a talented Japanese centre forward.

"Her biggest assets from a skill set perspective are the timing of her movement and understanding of the game to try and create goalscoring opportunities.

"She will form a fantastic part of the forward line within our team and I'm really excited to be working with her."

Ueki could make her debut against Manchester City in West Ham's WSL opener on October 1.