Aston Villa Women seal eye-catching swoop for Manchester City’s Jill Scott

Aston Villa Women boss Carla Ward has spoken of her delight at snapping up England Women legend Jill Scott for the rest of the season.

The 34-year-old midfielder has found herself increasingly out of the picture in the north west, but remains a hugely respected and talented figure and Ward is in no doubt of what Scott can offer her side.

Scott has been capped 153 times by England and retains high hopes of being selected for this summer’s European Championship. More minutes under her belt are key to those ambitions and Ward is set to give Scott the opportunity she craves for more Women’s Super League action.

‘It was a chance we couldn’t turn down’

“When we heard of Jill’s availability, it was a no-brainer to sign her,” said Ward.

“To have the chance to acquire one of England’s most decorated footballers is a chance we couldn’t turn down.

“Jill will bring so much to this group – not only on the pitch, but I see her having a huge impact off it too.

“We have some hugely exciting young talents coming through, so for them to learn from someone of Jill’s stature will be massive.”

Scott started her career at Sunderland before joining Everton in 2006. She spent seven years at the Toffees, who she rejoined on loan in the second half of last season.

Scott, who won the WSL title with City in 2016, is set to make her debut in Saturday’s (1pm) Women’s FA Cup tie at home to Chelsea.

On Sunday, Villa pulled further clear from danger at the foot of the WSL table thanks to a 2-1 victory at Leicester City through Alisha Lehmann’s injury time goal.

A message from the editor:

Thank you for reading. BirminghamWorld is Birmingham’s latest news website, championing everything that is great about our city - reporting on news, lifestyle and sport. We want to start a community among our readers, so please follow us on Facebook,Twitter and Instagram, and keep the conversation going.