Ireland international Jessie Stapleton seals season-long loan to Sunderland

NEW VENTURE: Jessie Stapleton during a Republic of Ireland women's training session. Pic: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Ireland women’s international Jessie Stapleton has joined English Championship outfit Sunderland from West Ham United on loan for the season.

The seven-times capped versatile player was snapped up by the Hammers in 2023 on a long-term contract after winning the double with Shelbourne and was loaned to Reading last season.

The WSL club have continued that policy with the 19-year-old by placing her with a team who finished third in the second tier last season. 

Jessie Stapleton signs! 🤩 pic.twitter.com/GchlT6W8pn

— Sunderland AFC Women (@SAFCWomen) August 1, 2024

She’ll get to play some of her games at the club’s famous Stadium of Light arena next season which kicks off on September 8 against Birmingham City.

“I’m delighted and I just can't wait to get going now,” said Stapleton, who has been deployed in midfield as well as defence by Ireland boss Eileen Gleeson.

“I’ve only been here a couple of days so far but I’m delighted to just be here, properly settle in and hit the ground running.” Sunderland Women Head Coach Mel Reay said: “We are delighted to bring Jessie to the club.

“She is a ball-playing centre-back with a seriously competitive spirit and, as a senior international with Ireland, she brings a lot of valuable assets to the squad.”