Durham Women FC have announced the signing of England youth international Eleanor Dale.
Dale, who is a regular for the Lionesses’ under-18 side, joins the Wildcats after a goal-laden start to the season at Middlesbrough.
The forward netted 11 times in ten appearances at the start of the campaign and has now earned a move to Durham – and is eligible to feature in their FA Women’s Championship clash against Leicester City on Sunday, January 12.
Dale can play anywhere across the frontline, and was delighted to seal her move to New Ferens Park.
“I’m very excited to be here and see what this opportunity brings,” she said. “I’m looking forward to testing myself in the Championship and I feel it will be a real challenge.
“I think playing with and against better and more experienced players can only help my game, and I hope I can contribute in the rest of the season.”
Manager Lee Sanders was equally delighted to see the talented forward put pen to paper.
“I’m really happy to be bringing Eleanor, a young, local, English international player into the club,” he said.
“We spoke to Eleanor a couple of times over the summer and she was a young forward we were really keen to bring in.
“The timing wasn’t right for all parties at that point, but now the time feels right and – without putting too much pressure on her young shoulders – we think she make the step up and scores goals in the Championship, as she has done in the National League.
“I’d like to thank Middlesbrough for their co-operation, understanding and support of Eleanor in helping us sort this deal.”
Dale is free to feature against Leicester next weekend, and will wear number 19 during her time with the club.
Meanwhile, Durham Women FC has also announced that Megan Bell has departed the club.
Bell, who joined the Wildcats in the summer, will be concentrating on playing football as opposed to a combination of her academic studies and football.
Durham wish Megan all the best and thank her for her contribution during her time at the club.
Courtesy of Durham Women FC
