Poppy Pritchard says the opportunity to learn from some of the Barclays Women’s Super League’s best players was too good an opportunity to turn down.

The 18-year-old joins City from Durham, where she has established herself as a forward with plenty of promise this season.  

Now the England Under-19 youngster is hoping to continue her football education with new team-mates in new surroundings as Gareth Taylor’s side chase silverware on three fronts.

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“I’m just really excited,” said Pritchard.  

“Obviously, it’s a great opportunity for a young player like me, so I just can’t wait to get started.   

“I think the opportunities for a player my age to be playing in and around the best players in the world, is just such a great chance and a really good challenge for me. 

“I would like to think I’m quite versatile. I’ve got an eye for goal, I like scoring and to be in and around the top players, I can’t wait to just get even better.   

“It’s my first professional contract and I’m sure I’ll learn how to be on the pitch, and how to be the elite of the elite.  

“The players here are the best, so learning from them will be a great opportunity and experience.”  

Pritchard caught the eye of a number of WSL clubs when she bagged a hat-trick against Manchester United Under-21s.  

“Yeah, obviously that was a really good moment!” she smiled.  

“I did love when I played in the Academy, but obviously I’m trying to do bigger and better things now.   

“[Playing against City in the FA Women’s Cup] was really good, too - obviously as they were a level up and playing in the WSL.  

“That was always going to be a massive challenge for Durham. City’s levels were so good - they know what they’re doing, and their players were so good on the day.   

“I liked City’s style of play, which was amazing. And you can just see that they are all top players.    

“Obviously, [my target is to] just break through. It’ll be hard, and it’ll be over a long period of time, but just to break into the first team squad eventually and try and do the best I can.   

“I’m just so excited and to be a part of this club - it’s amazing!”