Football (Soccer fútbol fußball 足球 )

Republic of Ireland international Harriet Scott has revealed that she is stepping away from football to become a doctor.

The Birmingham City defender has been studying to become a doctor at Keele University for the past five years alongside her football career.

After completing her studies earlier this Summer, Scott has decided to step away from football and take up a full-time role as a doctor in England with the National Health Service.

"The last 5 years have been some of the most challenging of my career," begins Scott's social media statement.

"Balancing a medical degree with professional and international football has been exhausting. I was told so many times that I couldn’t do it and it wouldn’t be possible. So, I made sure I did it.

"This year meant, final exams, 100 appearances for Blues, qualifying for the World Cup, graduating as a Doctor, winning Student of the Year and being involved in the World Cup over in Australia. I am very proud of myself.

"For now, it’s time for me to take a step back from football and decompress. I will be starting work as a Doctor in the NHS and look forward to helping my patients.

"Thank you to everyone who has supported my journey over the last 5 years.

"H, x."

The 30-year-old began her career with Reading before moving to Birmingham in 2018 where she went on to make over 100 appearances for the West Midlands club.

She also made 24 appearances for Ireland and was part of the travelling squad that went to Australia for this Summer's women World Cup.