New striker on Tyneside ahead of 2024/25 season as Wor Lasses reveal first summer signing

Here we go! Speculation is always rife at this time of the year about who the Men’s Team may buy or sell. Meanwhile the Women’s Team just goes about it’s business relatively quietly then ……………………. Boom!

It was no secret that Wor Lasses were in the market for a new striker (or even two!) with centre forwards Bridget Galloway signing for Sunderland (allegedly but definitely being released by the Toon) and Paige Bailey-Gayle not offered a contract.

Then, just yesterday the first official signing of the summer was announced with Shania Hayles coming to be part of Becky Langley’s Championship squad. The Jamaican international striker is joining from Bristol City Women for an undisclosed fee.

Hayles, 24, started her career with Birmingham City Women in 2017 after progressing through the youth setup at Aston Villa. After two seasons, she returned to Villa Park and earned international honours in her final season with them before making the switch to Bristol City in July 2022.

During her first season with the Robins, she finished as the team's top scorer with 11 goals in 22 games to help them secure promotion to the top flight - something Hayles also experienced during her time with Aston Villa where she scored 10 goals in their promotion season.

Last season in a struggling Bristol City side she failed to hit the net in the WSL in 15 games but having been part of two sides that both gained promotion to the Super League and top scoring in both those campaigns she’s clearly a player that United targeted and are happy to announce.

https://twitter.com/shania_hayles/status/1808560519265050856?s=46

On joining Newcastle United Women, Hayles said: "I'm absolutely delighted to sign for this club. I've heard such great things and I can't wait to get started.

"I know that the fanbase is brilliant and I can't wait to be playing in front of them all in the black and white shirt."

Manager Becky Langley said: "I am delighted to see Shania sign for Newcastle United Women. I have briefly worked with Shania previously. She is fast, a great finisher and an incredibly humble but motivated player.

"I am excited to see Shania sign for the club. I am sure with our support she will flourish."

More signings are due to be announced very soon as well as a challenging and exciting pre-season campaign.