Fit-again Nelson open to Northern Ireland return

Julie Nelson has won more Northern Ireland caps than any other player in the women's game

Julie Nelson, Northern Ireland women's record cap holder, would be open to a return to the international set-up under Tanya Oxtoby.

Nelson's 130th international was against Italy in November 2022 before an injury-hit 2023 campaign.

Oxtoby, who was appointed manager in August, has previously said the "door will continue to be open" when it comes to selection for the 38-year-old defender.

"All I can do is focus on playing to the best of my ability and what Tanya decides is up to her," said defender Nelson.

"I don't really think that's within my control."

Crusaders want to win silverware

Speaking at the launch of the upcoming Women's Premiership season, Crusaders Strikers defender Nelson told BBC Sport NI she was "excited to be back" after her injury issues.

She added: "2023 was a year to forget for me in terms of injuries. I've had a tough pre-season, I've been working hard on my own as well to get myself back into full fitness.

"If I didn't have that same buzz then I wouldn't put my body through it. I'm excited to be playing another season and hopefully staying injury-free."

While recovering from injury Nelson, who made her international debut in 2004, has taken on coaching roles with Northern Ireland's underage teams and she is in the process of finishing her A Licence course.

"I've really enjoyed working with the youth international squads. It's great to see the exciting young talent coming through.

"Hopefully that is something I will go into when I hang my boots up."

Breaking into top two 'difficult'

Now back on the pitch, Nelson said she was "excited to get going" as Crusaders look to break into the top two of the Women's Premiership and claim an elusive trophy.

Jonny Tuffey's side are in the semi-finals of the League Cup, which started before the league action gets under way on 5 May.

Cliftonville and Glentoran have had a stranglehold on the top of the table in recent seasons and, while the Crues have defeated both in that time, Nelson says the challenge is to do so on a regular basis.

"It's our aim to improve on the previous year. We have finished in third consistently over the past three or four seasons now.

"We are aiming to push into the top two but it's a difficult challenge.

"Our difficulty has been our consistency. We defeated both sides last year, so we know we are capable of beating those teams but it's the inconsistent results when you lose to teams you maybe shouldn't lose to.

"That is what has hurt us over the last number of seasons.

"Breaking our duck in terms of silverware has to be a realistic target."