Brooke Elizabeth Chaplen (born 16 April 1989) is an English professional footballer who plays primarily as a midfielder or forward. She has had a distinguished career in the FA Women's Super League (WSL), representing several prominent clubs, and has also earned caps for the England national team.
Club Career
Chaplen began her senior career at Everton in 2006. During her time with the Toffees, she contributed to the team's success, winning the FA Women's Premier League Cup in 2008 and the FA Women's Cup in 2010. Her performances at Everton established her as a versatile and promising talent in English women's football.
In 2011, she moved to Sunderland, where she continued to be a key player before joining Chelsea in 2014. At Chelsea, Chaplen was part of the squad that secured the FA WSL title in 2015, marking a significant achievement in her career, although playing time was competitive within the strong Chelsea roster.
Following her stint at Chelsea, Chaplen signed with Reading in 2015. She became a pivotal figure for the Royals, known for her experience, work rate, and goal-scoring ability from midfield. She made over 100 appearances for Reading, establishing herself as one of their most influential players during her lengthy tenure and helping the club solidify its position in the top tier of English women's football. She departed Reading at the conclusion of the 2022-23 season.
International Career
Chaplen represented England at various youth levels, including the Under-19 and Under-23 teams, gaining valuable international experience. She made her senior international debut for England in March 2014, coming on as a substitute in a 2-0 victory against Ukraine during a FIFA Women's World Cup qualifier. She earned a total of three senior caps for her country.
Playing Style
Known for her athleticism, tactical intelligence, and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively, Chaplen has been a consistent performer throughout her career. Her versatility allowed her to play effectively in various midfield roles and as a forward, making her a valuable asset to every team she represented.