Bassett will link with Canberra in the coming weeks after signing a deal to play in the Australia for the first time in a glittering 14-year career.

The 34-year-old has played for Arsenal, Leeds United, Chelsea, the New York Magic and Birmingham, as well as playing 61 games for England since making her international debut in 2003.

Bassett will add experience to the young Canberra side and will help fill the defensive void left by former skipper Ellie Brush, who will not play for the club this year.

"I can't wait, I'm so excited. I am really looking forward to meeting all the staff and players at this ambitious club," Bassett said.

"I am eager to start training with the team so I can fully immerse myself in the playing philosophy and culture of the club.

"I will gladly be passing on knowledge, experience, advice and all that I can do to support the younger players.

"I am always looking for opportunities to listen to other players, learn from their experiences and hear their views on how they see the game."

New coach Heather Garriock is slowly building her squad and has recruited Bassett, United States goalkeeper Hayley Kopmeyer, striker Michelle Heyman and young guns Grace Mahar and Nickoletta Flannery.

But foundation Canberra captain Brush won't be returning as she juggles a dual career in the AFL Women's competition and the W-League.

Garriock said on Saturday Brush would not be returning to the capital, but it's likely the 29-year-old will link with a Sydney club to avoid travelling between the cities.

Brush made her AFLW debut for the GWS Giants last year and is the only player in Canberra United history to reach the 100 game milestone.

Brush's departure makes Bassett's arrival even more important, with the two-time World Cup representative to be a crucial cog in the team's championship hopes.

CANBERRA UNITED W-LEAGUE SEASON

October 28: Melbourne Victory v Canberra United at Epping Stadium, 4.30pm.

November 12: Canberra United v Sydney FC at McKellar Park, 4.30pm.

November 19: Newcastle Jets v Canberra United at No. 2 Sportsground, 4.30pm

November 24: Canberra United v Perth Glory at Canberra (TBA), 5.20pm

December 3: Canberra United v Brisbane Roar at McKellar Park, 4.30pm

December 10: Melbourne City v Canberra United at AAMI Park, 4.30pm

December 15: Sydney FC v Canberra United at Allianz Stadium, 5.20pm

January 7: Canberra United v Adelaide United at McKellar Park, 4.30pm

January 14: Canberra United v Western Sydney Wanderers at McKellar Park, 4.30pm

January 20: Perth Glory v Canberra United at Hay Park, 7.30pm.

January 28: Canberra United v Newcastle Jets at McKellar Park, 4.30pm

February 4: Brisbane Roar v Canberra United at Suncorp Stadium, 4.30pm