'I hope we've done you proud in 2024,' says skipper Stobbs | OneFootball

And with their season now paused until the new year, skipper Amber-Keegan Stobbs has been reflecting on an historic 2024 for the team.

Having enjoyed a full year as captain in black and white, Stobbs had a plethora of memories to choose from - but when asked for her 2024 highlight, it only took her a matter of seconds to reveal the answer.

"Beating Sunderland at the Stadium of Light," admitted the lifelong Magpies fan, who was named after former United player and manager Kevin Keegan.

"I've always said I would only ever go there for a derby, which stems back from when I was a kid.

"They sometimes have great concerts on there and I wouldn't go; I remember I missed out on seeing Bruce Springsteen because I would only ever go there for a derby.

"I always thought that going there would be getting tickets for a game, but for my first time to be leading the team out in a derby and picking up all three points, that has to be my highlight of the year."

While it's been a fabulous few months for the Lasses under the watchful eye of Becky Langley, it can be quite easy to get caught up in it all - especially with so much changing so quickly.

Stobbs only joined the club in 2023, so this is her first full calendar year on Tyneside, but after a period of adjusting she now couldn't feel more at home.

"It's a bit shocking to hear that our games are done for 2024 because it's all gone so fast," Stobbs admitted.

"I don't like when it comes around to this part of the season and you're halfway through already.

"I feel like having been here for over a season and still being the captain is a huge honour. Last season it was a little bit different for me because I was still finding my feet as I was new to the club.

"Now, I feel a lot more like myself and I think I've steadily made sure I can lead in the right way, with help from other leaders in the squad around me.

"We've got a great team and a great group of girls which has made everything go a lot smoother."

Throughout the year, Stobbs and her team-mates have been roared on by huge crowds at St. James' Park, Kingston Park and their cup final at Kenilworth Road, with such support not going unnoticed.

When the new year comes around, United will be looking ahead to a bumper Championship schedule, as well as a home Women's FA Cup fourth round tie, and the skipper wants everyone to be involved on the journey.

"I'm so proud of the team and how far we've come," she added. "We knew this year would be a big challenge but I think we've rolled up our sleeves and given it a good go.

"Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, I hope we've done you proud in 2024 and we all can't wait to see you back here in the new year cheering us on."