TYLER TOLAND celebrated her 18th birthday yesterday by putting pen to paper on a two-year contract at Manchester City.
The St Johnston woman has made the move to City having previously played with Sion Swifts and her native Kildrum Tigers.
“I’m delighted to sign,” Toland said after signing with the FA WSL club.
“I’m very excited. Since I was four or five my dream was to become a professional footballer and now it’s a reality.”
In 2017, Toland made history when she became the youngster ever Republic of Ireland senior women’s international.
When appearing against Northern Ireland, Toland was just 16 years and 43 days old.
That evening, at Mourneview Park in Lurgan, Toland replaced Megan Campbell as as substitute and now Toland joins fellow Irish international Campbell at City.
Toland, who has been given the number 12 shirt at her new club, said: “I’ve spoken to Megan for a couple of months, she was buzzing when she found out.
“I’ve spoken to the manager and I’ve met all the girls. They’ve all been fantastic in helping me to settle in.”
City are managed by Nick Cushing and former Ireland international Alan Mahon is the assistant. They begin their new season against Manchester United in early September.
Toland said: “Nick is fantastic, I’ve seen him out on the training ground.
“He’s a brilliant manager and I’m looking forward to working under him.”
