The Manchester-born England international, who scored for her country in last week’s 3-2 defeat to France, has been training with the Blues’ first-team since the start of pre-season and has impressed manager Nick Cushing enough to be offered a two-year deal.
Since joining City last year from Manchester United’s Centre of Excellence, Flint accompanied Cushing’s side on their recent trip to La Manga and has featured in both of the Blues’ pre-season friendlies so far.
She is currently in college, studying a coaching course, but will have to reduce her hours to be able to accommodate her new training schedule - a sacrifice that she admits she is more than happy to make.
I’m so pleased to have signed a contract with City. I’ll be training full-time with the first-team and I just can’t believe it!
...Natasha Flint
Flint also revealed that training with the older members of the team has helped her to develop significantly over the last few months. Having spent so much time with the senior squad, the youngster has formed some strong friendships but confesses she was slightly overwhelmed when the team responded to her good news.
“After I found out, Nick announced it to the whole squad at training and I was so embarrassed! They all started congratulating me and I went really shy.
“They’re a great bunch of girls and I’ve learnt so much from them over the last few months. Working with the older players has been brilliant and it’s so much better than anything I’ve ever had before.
“Being with the first-team in La Manga especially was amazing. It’s the best trip I’ve been on. We all got to know each other on and off the pitch and I really enjoyed it.”
City Women kick-off their first season in the FA Women’s Super League in April and although Flint will be coming up against much older and more experienced opposition, she is eager to showcase her talents on the big stage.
“I can’t wait for the season to start,” she declared. “I know it will be hard against older players but just want to show what I can do. We’re all really excited for the first game against Liverpool.”
Reflecting on the capture of the youngster’s signature, Cushing expressed his joy. He stated: “We are delighted to have Natasha sign her contract. She has been training with our first-team and showing real potential whilst still performing well in our development squad.
“She is now part of our squad for the season and as a young player, will embrace all the experience we have here at MCWFC.”
