Durham have completed the signing of winger Emily Roberts as they bid to strengthen their promotion push in the second half of the season.
Roberts joined newly-promoted Sheffield at the beginning of the year and played in their 5-1 win over Leicester City WFC in the FA Women's Cup in February, but didn't make an appearance for the club in the league.
However, after impressing on loan at Doncaster Belles last term, the former Notts County winger has been granted another chance to shine in WSL 2 now as she gets onboard at Durham.
The North East outfit currently sit fourth in the standings, just seven points off the pace with two games in hand over the top two, and will hope Roberts can make some key contributions as they bid for a place in the top tier.
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Speaking to the club's official website, Roberts expressed her delight with her move as she readies herself for a return to action.
"I've had a bit of time away from football to focus on exams," she explained, meaning she's "really looking forward to getting back playing."
What makes her even more "excited" to get going is the task at hand, with Durham up there with the best in a "really close" season.
"I’m looking forward to working with Lee [Sanders, manager], all the coaching staff and the girls and hopefully remaining at the top of the table come the end of the season," Roberts added.
Experience, competition and quality
Sanders also spoke about the signing of Roberts, with him "delighted" with it given everything that she will bring to the squad.
The manager admitted that he is more than familiar with the quality she brings to the table, something she has showcased both in the FAWSL and while playing at university level, but he is also looking forward to her applying the experience she boasts.
“She’ll bring experience of having played in FA WSL 1 and being part of a very successful Doncaster Rovers Belles side last season," he said, adding: “I’m sure that she’ll fit right in with the squad."
As the games grow in importance for Sanders' side though, it's also important that Roberts brings "another attacking option" to the' team as they bid to keep up with the very best.
The forward, who can play anywhere across a front three, could make her debut as soon as this weekend, with Durham to welcome Aston Villa to New Ferens Park on Sunday afternoon.