Newcastle United sign Demi Stokes from Manchester City

Newcastle United Women have announced the signing of England international Demi Stokes from Manchester City Women.

Stokes, who has earned 69 caps for England, joins the Magpies following the expiration of her contract with City, where she spent nine successful years.

During her tenure at Manchester City, Stokes contributed to the club's success by winning nine major honours, including the Women's Super League title in 2016 and three Women's FA Cup titles.

Before her time in Manchester, she played in the USA and made her England debut against Norway in January 2014.

32 year-old Stokes expressed her enthusiasm for the move: "I am thrilled to be joining Newcastle United and returning home to the North East. I still have so much to give on the pitch and I'm excited to bring my experience to a club with such big ambitions. From the moment I spoke to the club, I felt valued and knew this was the right place for me to contribute to an exciting, new project. I can't wait to get going and meet the team."

Newcastle United Women’s manager, Becky Langley, praised the new addition: "Demi is one of the best defenders in the country and we are delighted that she is joining Newcastle United. She's an incredibly humble girl as well as being an ambitious, driven northerner. We can't wait to welcome her to the club."