Aston Villa have completed the loan signing of Manchester City midfielder Jill Scott on loan for the remainder of the 2021/22 campaign.
The 34-year-old has been restricted to just five starts in the WSL this season, all of which have come in an unnatural centre-back position following a string of injuries to City’s backline.
With a home European Championship on the horizon this summer, the move will be motivated by Scott’s desire to ensure she is named in the Lionesses squad.
Speaking to Aston Villa’s official website following the confirmation of the move, Villa boss Carla Ward said: “When we heard of Jill’s availability it was a no-brainer.
“To have the chance to acquire one of England’s most decorated footballers is a chance we couldn’t turn down. Jill will bring so much to this group, not only on the pitch but I see her having a huge impact off it too.
“We have some hugely exciting young talents coming through, so for them to learn from someone of Jill’s stature will be massive.”
We are delighted to announce the loan signing of @JillScottJS8 from Manchester City! ✍️
— Aston Villa Women (@AVWFCOfficial) January 25, 2022
According to the Telegraph, Scott was the subject of interest from four WSL teams, before opting to sign for Villa.
Scott found herself in a similar position during the 2020/21 season, with her starts limited following the summer arrival of World Cup winner Sam Mewis. She spent the second half of that campaign on loan at former side Everton, and was subsequently selected for the Team GB Olympic squad.
The England international is one of the game’s most recognisable figures , with 154 England caps to her name – a figure bettered only by Fara Williams.
Her move to Villa will see her join up with fellow stalwart of the game Anita Asante. The pair were both part of the England squad who made the final of the European Championships back in 2009.
Despite seeing her playing time limited at City this season, Scott has consistently been selected for England, with new boss Sarina Wiegman naming her in each of her first three Lionesses squads.
Euro 2022 kicks off in Manchester on 6 July, and would be Scott’s 10th consecutive major tournament for England and Team GB if she makes the squad.