Puskas Award runner-up and Ireland international Stephanie Roche has signed for Sunderland AFC ladies.
Roche will feature in English footballer's top-tier, the Football Association Women's Super League 1, with the Black Cats.
Speaking to the Sunderland website, Roche said: “It’s great to be at Sunderland ladies and I can’t wait to get started.
“I know there is a high standard in WSL 1 and it’s something I’m looking forward to being a part of. The team have done really well this season and hopefully I can play my part too.”
#SAFCLadies are delighted to welcome Ireland international @StephanieRoche9! http://t.co/a6xeQZr8Ny pic.twitter.com/Z31ltENMjd
— SunderlandAFC Ladies (@SAFCLadies) June 17, 2015
Sunderland becomes Roche's third club this year having left French side Albi in February to sign for Houston Dash, only to see her contract terminated with the US team in May.
Sunderland AFC ladies head coach, Carlton Fairweather, added: “Stephanie is going to be a very good addition to the side. The fact she was nominated for the FIFA Puskas Award at the 2014 Ballon d’Or ceremony shows her ability, but it isn’t just about that and she will bring added value to the side.
“From her point of view it is a great opportunity to establish herself in the FAWSL 1 and then push on from there, so her main objective will be to cement her place in the first-team and continue to represent Republic of Ireland at international level.
“We have had a good start to the season and as we enter the next phase we want to push on and improve.”
