Leeds Beckett student makes historic signing with Manchester United

Kirsty Hanson (BSc Hons Sports Coaching) says it is 'dream come true' to be part of Manchester United's first ever senior women's team.

A lifelong Manchester United fan, Kirsty is delighted to be part of the history making Red Devils team and is looking forward to working under women's football legend - and Manchester United first team coach - Casey Stoney.

The five time Scotland international has already linked up with her new teammates for pre-season as they plan to take the Championship by storm in the club's bid to join the elite Women's Super League competition.

Kirsty previously played for United's under 17's team before her move to Doncaster Rovers Belles 18 months ago.

A dream come true. Delighted to be back where it started at under 17’s & sign for the first ever @ManUtd Women’s team. Excited for this journey to begin🔴⚫️ #MUWomen pic.twitter.com/4iEzxfIuB9

— Kirsty Hanson (@KirstyHanson3) July 13, 2018

In an exclusive interview with Leeds Beckett Kirsty reveals what it's like for her to join her childhood team and what her goals are for the future.

"I am very excited to be joining United – the club that I support! I feel privileged to be part of the team, I’ve worked so hard & it’s paid off.

Pre-season has already started and it has gone great so far. It has been tough as I have only been used to training twice a week before but I’m already improving so I can’t wait until the season starts.

We have been doing a lot of team bonding as part of our preparations - as it’s a brand new team - which has been great and it already feels like a family at the club.

I can’t wait to work under a legend like Casey Stoney and Willie Kirk – who has had experience coaching at the top level – as well as playing alongside some full international players.

I was first contacted by an old coach of mine initially saying they want me back at United after I played there at under 17s level. I then had Casey Stoney get in contact with me and I couldn’t say no to the opportunity.

Unfortunately, due to my commitments with United, I won’t be eligible to play for Beckett next season due to training full time, but I have really loved playing university football and have met some great girls during my time with the club.

I have set myself some big goals for the 18/19 season. My main goal is to get as much game time as possible and then I want to focus on improving technically & physically, score goal and ultimately get the club promoted to the top division.

Honestly the thought of making history by becoming a player for United’s first ever women’s team is a dream come true!"

Best of luck Kirsty for the 2018-19 Women’s Championship season