- Demi Stokes joins Newcastle after nine seasons with Man City
- Magpies have secured promotion ito the Women's Championship
- Second signing in two days after landing Sunderland's Claudia Moan
Newcastle United have their hopes set on back-to-back promotion after confirming the signing of England international Demi Stokes, following her exit from Manchester City.
It comes as the club prepares for the Barclays Women's Championship after last season's Women's National League Northern Premier Division title was secured in April with two games to spare.
Stokes, who grew up in South Shields, had spent the last nine years at the Cityzens and helped the club to nine major honours - including the 2016 WSL title in 2016 and three FA Cup triumphs.
Prior to joining City, the 32-year-old left-back spent time in the United States at college level, during which she made her senior international debut for the Lionesses against Norway in January 2014. Eventually, Stokes made 69 appearances for her country and was part of the squad at Euro 2022.
Newcastle manager Becky Langley described Stokes as "one of the best defenders in the country".
Speaking about why she wanted to join, Stokes said: "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."
The announcement comes a day after the club also confirmed the arrival of Championship Golden Glove winner and Sunderland Player of the Season Claudia Moan.
The 25-year-old goalkeeper achieved ten clean sheets, helping Sunderland to third place in a nerve-racking title race last season. The move was a surprise to many, bearing in mind the historic north east rivalry that exists between the two clubs.
With a while left until the summer transfer window closes, all eyes will be on Newcastle to see who else they are likely to onboard, to help the top the table once again next season.
