Simone Magill has received a boost ahead of Northern Ireland's debut at Euro 2022 after signing a contract with Aston Villa. Magill recently parted company with Everton after nine years on Merseyside.
The 27-year-old is now heading to the Midlands after agreeing a two-year deal with Villa, subject to FA approval. It is the perfect lift for Magill who is expected to start for Northern Ireland against Norway on Thursday night in their opening game at this summer's European Championship finals.
Magill becomes Aston Villa manager Carla Ward’s first summer signing. And she admitted the international forward had been on her radar for the past two transfer windows.
Read more: Euro 2022: Northern Ireland defender Abbie Magee playing generation game at finals
Ward told the club's website: “Simone is someone we have tried to bring in during the last two transfer windows, so to get it over the line is something I’m delighted with.
"She’s a front-footed player with an eye for goal and someone I feel will fit in brilliantly to what we’re trying to do."
Northern Ireland kick-off their Euros campaign against Norway on Thursday before further group games against Austria and tournament hosts England. All three games will be played at Southampton's St Mary's Stadium.
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