Steph Houghton will celebrate a City milestone as she makes her 100th Club appearance against Sunderland Ladies.

The 29-year-old defender joined the Blues in January 2014, having transferred from Arsenal where she started her Super League career.

Dedicated, talented and invaluable, Houghton was handed the captain’s armband and has led Nick Cushing’s side to a sensational sweep of domestic trophies over the past 18 months.

Adding to an already-glittering CV, the defender has lifted two Continental Tyres Cups, the Super League title and an FA Cup, in addition to guiding City to the semi-finals of the Champions League at our first attempt. 

Admired for her trademark free-kicks, the Blues captain has scored a total of 10 goals, including memorable strikes against Notts County, SKN St Polten and Arsenal.

Following the Blues’ 2016/2017 success, Houghton was left hungry for more. Since the City and England skipper put pen to paper to sign a new contract in June 2017, her sights have been firmly set on leading the Club to further victory.

During her career, Houghton has accumulated a number of titles, which include; the BBC North East Sports Personality of the Year, England Women’s Player of the Year, Local Hero of the Year and FA Women’s Young Player of the Year.

In June 2016, the England international was also awarded an MBE in recognition for her personal achievements and contributions to the game, while she has also been named as a UEFA ambassador and became the first woman to feature on the front cover of Shoot Magazine.

Undoubtedly, the Blues skipper is a respected figure and a huge inspiration to sportswomen everywhere.

Everyone at the Club wishes to congratulate Steph on her 100th appearance.