Southampton goalkeeper Howard joins Watford on emergency loan | OneFootball

Southampton goalkeeper Beth Howard has joined Barclays Women’s Championship rivals Watford on a four-week emergency loan deal.

WSL Full-Time were informed of the news via an official club press release from Southampton this morning.

Howard joined Southampton from third tier side Bridgwater United in January 2023 and the player has provided competition for first-choice goalkeeper Kayla Rendell. Howard has made just two appearances for The Saints in the Barclays Women’s Championship this season and the opportunity has now arrived for her to go out and get more game time at Watford in the next few weeks.

After the player’s loan move was announced, Southampton head coach Marieanne Spacey-Cale said “This move has come about quite quickly, but it’s a fantastic opportunity for Beth to play some more minutes over the next few weeks.

“She’s already proved her ability at this level with us, and we wish her well for this period where she will benefit from more regular playing time at an important part of the season.”

Howard could go straight into the Watford squad for Sunday’s crucial Barclays Women’s Championship fixture against Lewes at The Dripping Pan. The Golden Girls have six games remaining to save themselves from an immediate relegation back to the FA Women’s National League.