Noonan's move to Durham delayed after knee injury

Saoirse Noonan will remain available to Shelbourne until the summer after her move to English Championship side Durham was delayed by a knee injury.

The Cork woman missed out on the Republic of Ireland's Pinatar Cup games due to the issue, though boss Vera Pauw expects her to be available for April's World Cup qualifier against Sweden.

On Wednesday evening Durham released a statement clarifying the 22-year-old's situation.

"Shortly after arriving in England in January, the Republic of Ireland international sustained a knee injury during training," it read.

"Durham Women immediately arranged a scan and diagnosis, and no surgery was required.

"Since that point, Noonan has been undergoing rehabilitation in Ireland while also flying to England for further medical support from the club's multi-disciplinary team.

"As she continues her return from injury, Noonan will register with Shelbourne in Ireland ahead of returning to Durham for the 2022/23 season."

Noonan scored her first senior international goal in last November's 11-0 trouncing of Georgia at Tallaght Stadium.

She was a key part of Noel King's league-wining Shels outfit last season, and her presence - albeit for only a portion of the campaign - is a welcome boost.

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