Newcastle United team sign former Celtic defender as eighth summer arrival confirmed

Newcastle United Women have capped off an extremely busy week with another two impressive signings.

The Lady Magpies had already confirmed the arrival of six new players; Emma Kelly, Elysia Boddy, Amber Keegan-Stobbs, Tyler Dodds, Naomi Bedau and Bridget Galloway prior to unveiling Jodie Bartle and Hannah Greenwood on Saturday.

Bartle, 31, joins from FA Women’s Championship side Coventry United Women, where she captained the club during her second spell last season.

The right-back re-signed for Coventry last summer after winning the Football League Cup and the Scottish Cup, as well as playing in the Champions League during her two-and-a-half-years with Celtic.

“Jodie is a born leader,” said Magpies boss Becky Langley. She is professional and brings great experience from captaining Celtic and Coventry.

“She is a very athletic and competent one-on-one defender and she will add experience and quality to our side.”

Midfielder Greenwood, meanwhile, arrives after starring in the Durham Cestria side that narrowly missed out on the National League Division One North on goal difference to Newcastle last season.

Langley added: “Hannah goes about her business quietly and professionally. She’s a clever girl and a nice technical player. I’ve fondly watched Hannah at Durham over the last few years and I know she will be a real asset to Newcastle United.”

Newcastle United Women switched from part-time to full-time last month which has been a major factor in attracting a higher calibre of player. All additions a part from Greenwood have dropped down a division to play in the third-tier next term.

The Ladies have also not hidden their ambition to reach the Women’s Super League as quickly as possible.

“The success of Newcastle United Women is an integral part of our sporting objectives and we are delighted to support the team’s progress by building a professional model around them,” said sporting director Dan Ashworth.

“Becky and the players have shown incredible dedication, and turning full-time will enable them to fully concentrate on their careers and the next chapter of Newcastle United Women as fully supported professionals.”