Natasha Harding: Manchester City Women sign Wales forward

Image source, Getty Images

Image caption, Natasha Harding helped the Wales to a fifth-place finish in the Istria Cup in Croatia last week

Wales striker Natasha Harding has joined Women's Super League Club Manchester City.

Harding's proposed move to Washington Spirit in the United States fell through after she was denied a visa.

The 26-year-old joins the Continental Cup holders having previously played for Cardiff City and Bristol Academy.

"I'm really excited to get started. I've heard a lot of great things about the club." Harding told the club website.

City manager Nick Cushing said he acted quick to bring Harding back to the Women's Super League after hearing of her availability.

"I speak a lot about wanting to play an attacking style of football that people enjoy and will want to come and watch," he said.

"Having a player like Tash in the squad - lots of speed, creativity and flair - is a perfect fit for us."

Harding could make her debut for City in their FA Cup fifth-round tie against WSL2 side Doncaster Rovers Belles on 22 March.

Manchester City open their WSL1 season at Birmingham City on Sunday, 29 March.

The forward spent five years at the Bluebirds before switching to Bristol in 2012 and was recently appointed Wales vice-captain by new manager Jayne Ludlow.