Skelton: 'Anything can happen'

Skelton believes the unpredictability of the competition is what makes it so special and is eager to progress in the upcoming fixture against fellow FA Woman's National League Division One North opposition.

Ahead of the highly-anticipated clash, only the second time Newcastle Women will have played at Newcastle United's iconic stadium, the left-back sat down with nufc.co.uk to discuss the Vitality Women's FA Cup, the Lady Magpies' season so far and more…

How would you assess the season so far?

I think we have done well, considering all the injuries we have picked up. We just need to take it week by week and get as many points on the table as possible.

This is a chance to play another match at St. James' Park. How excited are you?

I am very excited about the game at St. James'. It's every Newcastle fan's dream. The first time was so surreal and I can't wait to experience something even remotely similar.

What's the best part about being a Newcastle Women's player?

Being able to be part of such a huge club. For the men's and women’s teams, the only way is up, and we are all so excited to be a part of the journey.

How much of an impact have the new signings had this season?

The new signings have made a major impact. They all bring amazing individual qualities on and off the pitch. They're all great footballers and brilliant people.

Having beaten Barnsley earlier in the season, does that give you confidence coming into this one?

We are all confident in the ability of our team regardless of who we are playing. But having already beaten them this season definitely gives us confidence that we can do it again.

How pleased are you with the way the youngsters have stepped up this campaign?

I am very pleased about the number of minutes I have been given this season. I'm grateful that Becky (Langley) trusts me to perform every week.

How special is the Vitality Women's FA Cup as a competition?

The FA cup is arguably where the best memories are created. It's so unpredictable, everyone talks about the magic of the FA Cup and that anything can happen in it.

What are your hopes for the Vitality Women's FA Cup this season?

My hopes are just to progress as far as we can. Hopefully, we can get as far, if not further, than last season as that whole experience was amazing to be a part of.

Are your family coming to St. James' Park to support you?

Yes! In fact, basically all of my family are coming. They're all massive Newcastle fans so could never turn down a day out at St. James' Park.

Who's your biggest supporter?

I would have to say my biggest supporter is my dad. He comes to every game, home or away. He always tells me what I'm good at but is also my biggest critic, which I love too.

Has anything changed at the club this season, compared to last year?

Everyone is hungrier to get promotion. We all felt the feeling of being so close but not close enough last year, so we want to make sure we don’t feel that way again this season.

If you have one message for the supporters ahead of that monumental match at St. James' Park, what is it?

We are so grateful for all of the people coming out to support us. We hope that you enjoy the game and that we can put a smile on everyone's faces and make a great day out of it.

Tickets are still available for Sunday's tie with Barnsley Women at St. James' Park. They are currently priced at £3 for adults and £1 for concessions but will rise to £6 for adults and £2 for concessions on the day of the match. Book yours here.

Main photograph courtesy of Colin Lock/@Tyneside_NUWFC