Durham Women sign international forward Maria Farrugia

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Durham Women have announced the signing of Malta international Maria Farrugia.

The forward joins the club after leaving Sunderland at the end of last season, and further bolsters the side’s attacking options ahead of the 2022/23 Barclays Women’s Championship campaign.

Farrugia was a regular for the Black Cats last season as they returned to the second tier, having been instrumental in their success in the FA Women’s National League prior to that.

She has spent her entire senior career with the Wearsiders after moving to England to pursue her footballing dreams.

The 21-year-old has also amassed over 25 caps for Malta while having two international goals to her name, and can play in a variety of positions across the frontline.

And now Farrugia is ready to take her first steps into full-time football at Maiden Castle.

“I’m delighted to have signed with Durham,” she said.

“It’s a new team, a new challenge and I’m very excited for that. Hopefully it will be a good season for the team.

“Getting to play full-time football was one of the main things that made me want to be here. It was always one of my dreams so I’m very grateful for that.

“Durham are one of the strongest teams in the league so to be here is really great.”

Farrugia could make her first competitive appearance on the opening day of the campaign against Sunderland – in front of what looks set to be a sell-out crowd.

Tickets are flying out so visit durhamwfc.ticketco.events to get yours.

And the forward is excited to meet the Durham faithful.

“The fanbase here at Durham is really good,” she said. “I can’t wait to meet them and hopefully make them happy!”

Lee Sanders added: “I’m delighted to welcome Maria to Durham.

“She was a player that we had identified and had discussions about in previous years when that might not have been the right time for player or club.

“But when we were made aware that she was available and was interested in coming to Durham this summer – and after coming in to train with us for ten days – it was apparent what an exciting young player we were going to be able to sign.

“I’m sure she will be a player that, when she’s on the pitch, will excite supporters. She’s always looking to drive forward and adds another dimension to the exciting young talent that we have here already.”

With thanks to Durham WFC