Since then, the record-breaking 25-year-old has established herself as one of the pioneers of women's football, with her impact at this club felt more than most.
Spells with Blackburn Rovers and Manchester City helped Ella learn her trade but it is here, with her childhood club, that our no.7 has carved the way for many young girls in the sport.
Alongside Millie Turner and Leah Galton, Tooney is one of the only remaining members from our 2018/19 title-winning inaugural squad.
With the weight of expectation set to swing around like no other after a busy summer, Ella knows what it will take to be successful in 2024/25.