Stoke City Ladies have already agreed the signings of three players ahead of next season's 2008/09 campaign.

New Manager Mick Barber has strengthened the team by completing the signings of England Deaf International Donna Cross as well as Hannah Woodford and Vicky Gutteridge.

Cross, 22, will compete for England next month before returning to the Potteries and taking part in the club's challenge for promotion from the West Midlands Premier Division.

"It's time to strengthen the foundations that we already have," Barber said.

"We are delighted with our new signings especially when it will help in our push for promotion.

"It's an exciting time for anyone to be involved in football around here, especially for us with the men going up into the Premier League.

"Cross will have plenty to offer us and we are pleased to be signing an international - to have someone sign for us of this stature can surely only strengthen the squad."

Donna started out at Leeds United Deaf Ladies before moving over to Belfast United and Barber believes she could become a key player for the team next season.

"She's a very exciting player to watch," he added.

"We will endeavour to help her progress within football and most certainly look forward to working with her when she is back from international duties in Greece at the end of July.

"We would also like to thank the staff with all the work done at Stoke City Girls Centre of Excellence as there has been a massive influx of players from the centre who have also made a positive step forward in joining the teams at this level".