Stephanie Roche gets move to English club

By Stephen Barry

Ireland’s most famous female soccer player has recovered from being let go by Houston Dash, by bagging a contract with Sunderland.

Roche will be playing in the Women’s Super League with the north-easterners, who are currently fourth at the mid-season break.

Roche came to worldwide attention after scoring a wonder goal for Peamount United – which we couldn’t avoid including here…

Since then she has lined out in France and the USA, while finishing runner-up for FIFA’s Puskás Award, behind James Rodriguez.

“It’s great to be at Sunderland Ladies and I can’t wait to get started,” Roche said.

Delighted to say I've just signed for @SAFCLadies Thanks for all the kind messages! Roll on July 12th!!⚽️⚽️ pic.twitter.com/dzENz516XF

— Stephanie Zambra (@StephanieRoche9) June 17, 2015

“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.”

Carlton Fairweather, head coach at the club, was happy to have recruited the Irishwoman: “Stephanie is going to be a very good addition to the side.

Look who's on her way to The FA WSL! @StephanieRoche9 signs for @SAFCLadies #ALeagueOfOurOwn http://t.co/ZhE0TyswWG pic.twitter.com/FQAZr3u4ZH

— Barclays Women's Super League (@BarclaysWSL) June 17, 2015

“The fact she was nominated for the FIFA Puskás 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.”