Newcastle sign England full-back Demi Stokes from Manchester City

Newcastle have signed Demi Stokes from Manchester City, bringing to an end the England defender’s nine years with the Women’s Super League club.

The 32-year-old, who made only four WSL appearances as City narrowly missed out on the title last season, joins Newcastle ahead of their first season in the Championship following promotion last term.

She was a member of Sarina Wiegman’s Lionesses squad that were victorious in the European Championships in 2022 and has played 69 times for her country.

Stokes said: “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.”

With City she was a WSL champion in 2016 as well as lifting the FA Cup on three occasions.

Newcastle manager Becky Langley said: “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.”