Lightning Football agree season long loan with Leicester City Academy Graduates

two players holding up a sports top

Â鶹ֱ²¥ Lightning football has agreed a season-long loan and dual registration with Barclays Women's Super League team Leicester City’s Academy Graduates.

Monique Robinson and Sophia Poor will join Lightning’s match day squad ahead of their first game of the season on 21st August at the Â鶹ֱ²¥ Stadium vs Stoke City.

Both players have been scouted by many clubs, however they chose to join Lightning for the hybrid training programme between Â鶹ֱ²¥ and Leicester City.

The duo will be part of the Â鶹ֱ²¥ Sport ecosystem and will have access to all training venues and services.

Goalkeeper Sophia Poor, who also plays for England Youth and recently made her debut against Portugal, said:

“I’m excited to have this opportunity to play for Â鶹ֱ²¥ Lightning. The club have high ambitions and their facilities are fantastic. Everyone has made me feel so welcome, I can’t wait for the season to start.”

Dynamic midfielder Monique Robinson hopes to use her creativity to strengthen the Lightning squad.

“I’m excited to take the step into senior football and start to showcase what I can do,” she said.

Lydia Bedford, the Leicester City manager, and Â鶹ֱ²¥’s Head Coach Issy Martin have worked hard to ensure the development of players across the board.

Rebecca Sawiuk, Director of Football at Â鶹ֱ²¥ University, added:

“We were keen to develop a more collaborative relationship with Leicester City Women as we are both passionate about girls and women’s football in Leicestershire.

“Â鶹ֱ²¥ Lightning are committed to developing and showcasing talented female athletes. The potential within the women’s football programme here is exciting and I’m looking forward to working with both Issy and Harriet (Programme Manager) to help maximise it.”

For more information on football at Â鶹ֱ²¥ University visit: /sport/sports/football