The first confirmed signing of the transfer window has been announced. NUFC Women’s ranks have been bolstered by the signing of Charlotte Wardlow from Chelsea on a permanent deal.
Those with eagle-eyes and knowledge of the game may even have spotted Wardlaw at last Sunday’s FA Cup win over Nottingham Forest as she warmed up before the game with one of United’s backroom coaching staff.
She was also on my media statistics sheet that I received prior to the game but we were sworn to secrecy afterwards and asked, nay told, not to announce it! I was true to the request but now the worst kept secret of the week is out!
The versatile 21-year-old, who can play across defence and also as a defensive midfielder, has spent the first half of this season on loan at fellow Women’s Championship club Sheffield United.
Wardlaw actually played for Sheffield in the FA Cup against Liverpool Feds which is how she is cup-tied and meaning she will not be eligible for selection when Wor Lasses travel to Crystal Palace in the 5th Round last 16 tie next month.
Wardlaw made twelve appearances in all competitions for the Blades before being recalled by Chelsea earlier this month. Prior to her time with Sheffield United, she has also had loan spells with Liverpool, Lewes and Glasgow City.
Wardlaw has represented England through the age-groups, captaining the under-15s, under-17s and under-19s at international level and was part of the squad for the 2022 UEFA Women’s Under-19 Championship tournament.
Wardlaw and Langley react
On signing for the club, Wardlaw said: “There were lots of different factors that made this move the right one for my career: the history, tradition, the family feel of the club and ultimately the ambition.
“I’m really looking forward to getting to know everybody and to being a part of this huge club. The future for Newcastle in the women’s game is very exciting.”
Head coach Becky Langley said: “Charlotte is an exciting young player from Chelsea.”
“She was on loan at Sheffield United and impressed both myself and Paul Mitchell in the fixture we played against them earlier this season. She has lots of potential and quality to add to the team.”
Ironically, Wardlaw could line-up for a United debut against Sheffield United as she is in the squad for this Sunday’s Championship clash at Bramall Lane which kicks-off at 1:00pm and is available to watch through YouTube.
Rumour also has it that Wardlaw may not be the last signing arriving in January. With two spaces available in Becky Langley’s 25-player squad many are expecting further announcements in the coming days.
