Ireland’s striker Amber Barrett and defender Niamh Fahey have received pre-World Cup boosts after signing contracts for their respective professional clubs.
Barrett, who has spent four years in Germany, has concluded her tenure there by signing a contract with the Belgian team, Standard Liege. Standard Liege is currently Belgian Women’s Cup champions and finished third in the league last season.
“Unbelievably proud to announce I will be joining Standard Femina,” Barrett announced on Instagram. 
Absolutely thrilled to have joined this historic club! 🔴⚪️ https://t.co/bHYwEB5FfT
— A.B. (@amberbarrett09) June 13, 2023
Niamh Fahey has extended her contract with Women’s Super League outfit Liverpool, marking her sixth season with the team. Since joining the club in 2018 after departing Bordeaux, Fahey has made 106 appearances and is also the captain of the side. Liverpool finished seventh last season in what was their WSL return campaign after two seasons in the Championship.
“It was an easy decision and I’m delighted to extend my contract at this fantastic club – I couldn’t imagine being anywhere else,” Fahey said on Liverpool’s website.
A win at home with these beauts💪🏻Up the reds 🔴@LiverpoolFCW pic.twitter.com/uq42ZQ4jhS
— Niamh Fahey (@Niamh_Fahey1) November 27, 2022
“I’m already massively excited for next season. I’ve been here five years, seen a lot of changes but the position we’re in now as a club is really exciting and the future looks really, really bright.
“I’m delighted to be a part of it and keep pushing the club higher up the table.”
Both players have been training with Ireland’s Women’s National training squad this week in Dublin, with hopes of making Vera Pauw’s 23-player squad for the World Cup. The final team will be announced next week (29 June).