Malta women’s international Maria Farrugia is delighted to have been given the opportunity to be a full-time player in the prestigious Barclays Women’s Championship.
Farrugia, 21, has put pen to paper on a contract with Durham Women after spending four seasons at Sunderland Ladies.
The Gozitan-born player was looking to embark in a team as a full-time player and Durham Women provided the right platform for her to keep growing as a player.
“I’m delighted to have signed with Durham,” she said in an interview to the club’s official website.
“It’s a new team, a new challenge and I’m very excited for that. Hopefully it will be a good season for the team.
“Getting to play full-time football was one of the main things that made me want to be here. It was always one of my dreams so I’m very grateful for that.”
In last season’s Championship campaign, Durham placed sixth in the 12-team with 34 points.
Based in North East England, Durham have recruited other key players ahead of the new season including former England international Jessica Clarke.
“Durham are one of the strongest teams in the league so to be here is really great,” Farrugia said.
The new season will start on on August 21 when Farrugia will immediately meet her former team mates as Durham host Sunderland.
“The fanbase here at Durham is really good,” the Malta international said.
“I can’t wait to meet them and hopefully make them happy!”
Durham coach Lee Sanders added: “I’m delighted to welcome Maria (Farrugia) to Durham.
“She was a player that we had identified and had discussions about in previous years when that might not have been the right time for player or club.
“But when we were made aware that she was available and was interested in coming to Durham this summer – and after coming in to train with us for ten days – it was apparent what an exciting young player we were going to be able to sign.
“I’m sure she will be a player that, when she’s on the pitch, will excite supporters. She’s always looking to drive forward and adds another dimension to the exciting young talent that we have here already.”
