Sunderland Women’s Libbi McInnes insisted the team are “ready to go” as they take on the anticipated Tyne-Wear derby against [Newcastle United](https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/all-about/newcastle-united-fc) in WSL 2.
The midfielder has enjoyed a standout 2024/25 campaign and is relishing her role in the squad.
Reflecting on her season so far she told the club: “I’ve been loving it. I’ve waited a long time to break into the team. I’ve bided my time, but this season I’ve finally been ready, and I think I’m starting to show it.”
McInnes credited her team-mates for their influence on her development and said: “I’ve always respected the players ahead of me and learned a lot from them. I’ve worked really hard to get here, and now it’s paying off. I’ve taken bits from all the players—I couldn’t pinpoint just one—but they’ve all played a role in helping me improve.”
The 20-year-old, another product of the club’s academy, made a key impact in last month’s River Wear derby against Durham, scoring the opener in a memorable victory.
“It was amazing,” she reflected. “I didn’t even know how to celebrate, but helping the team win was a great feeling, and I was really proud. I feel a lot more confident now, and I think that’s showing in my performances.”
Ahead of today's derby at St James' Park, which is set to see a crowd in excess of 30,000 - a record for the Women's Championship - McInnes stressed its significance and the squad’s determination to bounce back from last weekend’s result against Portsmouth and the reverse fixture against Newcastle, at home, earlier in the season.
“We can’t wait,” she added. “It’s one of the biggest games of the season, and nothing compares to a local derby. We’re excited and ready to go.
“That last result was disappointing, but we’re focused on bouncing back. We know what we need to improve, and we’re ready to put things right.”
With just four games remaining, McInnes insists the squad is determined to finish the season strong.
“We want to take maximum points from every game and push on to end the season on a high,” she concluded.