Northern Ireland midfielder, Rachel Furness has joined FA Women’s Championship team, Newcastle United on a free transfer.
Furness had spent the last 18 months at Bristol City with whom she won promotion to the Women’s Super League at end of 2022-23 season, only to suffer instant relegation back to Women’s Championship at conclusion of last season.
During her time with the Robins at Ashton Gate, Furness managed two goals in 23 appearances, but chose to leave last month upon expiry of her contract and return to the North East.
Speaking about her decision to return to her home region and join her home-town’s bitter rivals – having been born in and played for Sunderland, Furness is excited to be back home and representing her childhood club.
“To sign for a club I have supported my whole life – coming back home to the North East – is a very proud moment for me. Anyone that knows me knows I bleed black and white.
“I have watched from afar over the years and the ambitions of the club on and off the pitch are something I can’t wait to be a part of. I’m excited to meet the team and bring my experience to an already very talented squad.”
Newcastle Utd Women’s manager, Becky Langley added: “Rachel has had an excellent career and she will undoubtedly add very good experience to the team. She’s a winner and I love that about her.
“She’s excellent in the air and an all-round good footballer. We can’t wait to see her flourish back at her hometown club.”
Furness began her career at Chester-Le Street Ladies then went on to play for Sunderland in two separate spells – either side of a stint at Newcastle, and even played for Iceland’s Grindavik in 2010 then loan at Lincoln a year later.
The 36 year-old has more recently played for Reading, Liverpool and Bristol City, although she spent 2019-20 season on loan at Tottenham then Liverpool before she made a permanent move to Merseyside.
Confirmation of Furness’ transfer came just hours after Newcastle announced that their women’s team will host AC Milan in a Sela Cup clash at St James’ Park on Saturday 10 August.
The clash will take place at 1pm BST and form the first of a double-header that afternoon, with Eddie Howe’s men’s side facing Stade Brest in a 4pm kick-off.
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