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Manchester United Women defender Lucy Newell has joined Blackburn Rovers on loan until the end of the season.
The Women’s side returned after the winter break in stunning form as they began their defence of the FA Cup title with a 7-0 romp over West Bromwich Albion.
As the team prepare for a packed schedule in January they have also been busy off the pitch, making some adjustments to their squad.
Long-term servant Hayley Ladd has already left for Everton on a permanent transfer.
She has been joined by youngster Emma Watson who has also departed for the Liverpool club but only on loan until the end of the season.
The club’s official website have confirmed that Newell is the next young star to be given the chance to prove themselves elsewhere and gain valuable first team minutes.
“Manchester United Women defender Lucy Newell has joined Blackburn Rovers on loan until the end of the season,” the club confirmed.
“Lucy signed her first professional contract with United Women in October 2024, on her 18th birthday” after impressing with West Brom in the third division last season.
She also played for the United under 21s and was a key part of their title success in 2024.
As a result, she won the Women’s Academy Players’ Player of the Year award for her fine efforts.
Newell has made numerous first team squads this season but is yet to get any playing time off the bench. The 18 year old will hope that her move to the second division will offer her significantly greater playing time.
Grace Clinton is a perfect example to follow as she spent last season out on loan at Tottenham Hotspur and has returned this season as one of United’s most important players.
Featured image Joosep Martinson via Getty Images
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