Newcastle United team sign Wolverhampton Wanderers defender in double swoop

Newcastle United Women’s summer of recruitment is showing no signs of slowing down after announcing two further signings.

The Lady Magpies have been super busy this week, already recruiting former Sunderland captain Emma Kelly and forward Tyler Dodds, while Elysia Boddy and Amber Keegan-Stobbs have also dropped down in the FA Women’s third tier after playing in the Championship last season.

On Friday, Newcastle confirmed Bridget Galloway had also done the same having played the last couple of seasons at Durham. Meanwhile, Naomi Bedeau has arrived from fellow National League Northern Premier Division side Wolverhampton Wanderers.

That takes NUFC Women’s summer signing count to six, with more still expected to follow.

“I worked with Bridget at Northumbria University and she was the top goalscorer in the league,” manager Becky Langley said. She’s a top girl and she’s a very clever number nine. Her finishing is one of her strongest qualities. I am very excited to link back up with Bridget.”

On Bedeau, Langley added: “Naomi is a very humble and great personality. She’s a really strong defender and brings a great presence and I’ve watched her progress fondly at Stoke and Wolves. She had some of the best stats in tier three last season and she will be an excellent signing for 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. The club have not hidden its 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.”