Newcastle United announce signing of former Sunderland defender

Newcastle United Women have announced the signing of experienced defender Charlotte Potts to help boost their FA Women’s National League Division One North promotion push.

Potts, who has previously played for Sunderland Ladies, Swiss side FF Lugano, Hibernian Women and Calgary Foothills in Canada made her debut during the Lady Magpies’ 1-0 win at Norton & Stockton Ancients on Sunday afternoon.

“I’ve supported Newcastle growing up as a kid,” Potts said. “(I remember) going to St. James’ Park with my uncle and getting goosebumps listening to Local Hero.

“Being back wearing that badge, there is more emotion involved (than my previous clubs), and you seem to play with more passion.”

In the summer, the Ladies team - previously funded by the Newcastle United Foundation- officially became a part of Newcastle United Football Club.

Co-owner Amanda Staveley, similar to her ambitious plans for the men’s team, wants to see the Lady Magpies compete in the Women’s Super League.

“Promotion for this season (is a target) without a doubt,” Potts added. “Then, the ultimate goal is the WSL (Women’s Super League).

“It would be the best thing ever to see Newcastle Women in the WSL alongside the men in the Premier League.”

Becky Langley’s side are level on points with leaders Barnsley and Potts hopes her experience can help towards sealing promotion come the end of the campaign.

Potts said: “I’m a more experienced player, I’ve got the ability to mix passion and composure. I was trying to instil that into the other girls and try to make them trust in their own ability and stay calm and just play good football.

“Being abroad in different countries, being coached by different coaches, you pick up bits and pieces from each place that you go, and you learn new styles of play.

“I think they all become useful when you bring them to a new environment because you’re just stacking up the knowledge and sharing it (with your teammates).”