Sunderland Women Make'exciting addition' in Fran Stenson
Fran Stenson pictured in WSL 2 action in March 2026 Photo by Keeran MarquisSPP
Sunderland Women have signed goalkeeper Fran Stenson, who made 47 appearances across all competitions over two seasons with fellow WSL2 side Southampton.
An England youth international through to the U23s, she earned the Saints Players’ Player of the Season award for the 2024-25 campaign.
She earlier had spells with Birmingham City, Manchester City, Arsenal, and Sheffield United, with loans to Blackburn Rovers and Brighton.
Stenson told safc.com: “The ambition of the club is massive, and after my first conversation with Mel [Reay], I knew where I wanted to be. It’s a really exciting time to be part of it.
“I started my football career quite young, and I feel at 25, I bring a lot of confidence from positive experiences I’ve gained in the past, which I hope to bring to this team. I can’t wait to meet the fans, and we’ll do everything we can to put on a good show.”
Head Coach, Mel Reay, added: “Fran is a fantastic addition for Sunderland. She’s calm, commanding and composed between the posts, with the attributes needed to make big saves when they matter most. Her shot-stopping, presence and professionalism make her an exciting addition to the squad, and we’re confident she’ll be a real asset to the group. Fran has huge potential, and we’re looking forward to helping her continue her development and seeing her grow into one of the standout goalkeepers in the game.”
More from the world of women’s football
Discover the latest issue of Her Goal Magazine, featuring an exclusive interview with Lionesses legend Fran Kirby, a FREE Mary Earps MBE poster, Paula Tomàs, Lauren Davidson, Jacqui Oatley MBE and much more from across the women's game.
Her Goal Magazine Issue 8 cover featuring Fran Kirby with FREE Mary Earps poster
Packed with exclusive interviews, player features, posters, quizzes and in-depth stories from across women’s football — including players, clubs and articles just like the one you’re reading here.
Also available from WHSmith, Morrisons, Asda, Waitrose, TG Jones and independent newsagents.