Former England international agrees new Aston Villa deal
Midfielder Lucy Staniforth has committed her future to Villa Women by signing a new contract.
The 32-year-old, who was due to be a free agent this summer, has agreed a one-year deal with the option of a further year.
Staniforth, capped 17 times by England, has made 46 appearances in all competitions since joining Villa from Manchester United two summers ago.
She was part of the team which achieved the Villa’s highest-ever Women’s Super League finish of fifth during her first season at the club and is still viewed as an important member of head Natalia Arroyo’s squad.
Staniforth, who also played for Birmingham City earlier in her career, is the latest Villa player to agree a new deal this week after defender Anna Patten signed a three-year contract.
The 26-year-old Republic of Ireland international has made nearly 100 appearances since joining from Arsenal, initially on loan, in 2022, becoming a mainstay in the backline.
Patten said: “I’m really excited. Obviously, I’ve spent three-and-a-half years here and signing for three more, Villa’s becoming a home for me now.
“I feel really respected here and I know where I stand in the club. I feel like I can perform for this club and I feel very comfortable here. When I feel comfortable, I feel I play my best football.”
