Ellie Roebuck did not travel with the Manchester City squad to face Durham in the FA Cup fourth round on Sunday, as she closes in on a Barcelona move.
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Roebuck fallen down pecking order at CityNot in squad for Durham FA Cup clashMove to Barca edging closerWHAT HAPPENED?
The Lionesses goalkeeper has seen her playing time limited at the Manchester-based club, which has had an adverse effect on her opportunities at international level. As a result, reports this week suggested she could be close to sealing a move away, with her contract set to expire in the summer. Barcelona now appear poised to complete that transfer, after Roebuck was left out City's FA Cup squad to face Durham on Sunday.
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Speaking last month about losing her place at club and international level, the 24-year-old hinted at a winter move. She told : "I make no bones about it, it's been a pretty tough few months of the season. I'm just head down, working as hard as I can, and I'll continue to support the team. Working hard is all I can control. I want to be playing football, that's what I do, it's my job, my love, my passion."
GettyTHE BIGGER PICTURE
A move to Spain's Liga F and reigning champions Barcelona will no doubt boost her career hopes, especially on the international stage. Roebuck hasn't played a competitive match this season for City since 19-year-old Khiara Keating came in, killing her chances of stealing theLionesses No.1 spot away from the ever-growing icon that is Mary Earps.
DID YOU KNOW?
Should she complete the move to Catalonia, Roebuck will link up with some familiar faces. Former Lionesses team-mates Lucy Bronze and Keira Walsh play their football at Barcelona, who celebrated a Women's Champions League victory last term.