SEVERN Stars have signed former England player Leah Kennedy ahead of Saturday's home game with Strathclyde Sirens (6pm).

The Worcester side have swooped for Kennedy with Commonwealth Games gold medallist Jodie Gibson still out of action following knee surgery earlier this year.

The 26-year-old has previously played in the Vitality Netball Superleague for today's opponents Sirens and Team Northumbria.

The goal defence and goal keeper played for England Roses in 2016 and 2017 as well as the Fast5 national squad before taking a year out due to a shoulder injury.

Newcastle-based Kennedy said: “I am so excited to be part of the Severn Stars squad.

"The buzz around the Stars this season and the set-up is something I can’t wait to be involved in. 

"I’m very lucky that I know quite a few of the players from my time with Roses.

"I played with Sam (Cook) in the circle when I made my England debut.

"Also I am very excited to be back in a team with George (Georgia Rowe) from when she played with me at Team Northumbria for a season a few years ago.

"It’s great to see how she has grown at Stars and I can’t wait to catch up with her and the rest of the squad.”

On Saturday's match, Kennedy said: “Most of the Sirens squad haven’t changed since last season so I reckon I can bring my experience of training weekly with the girls and knowing how to counteract what they do.”

Stars defender Ella Powell-Davies, who hails from Gloucester, is looking forward to Saturday's clash at her home venue of the University of Gloucestershire Sports Arena.

After a 53-52 final-quarter comeback win at Celtic Dragons last weekend, Stars look for another win against Sirens who are one place below them in the table.

Powell-Davies, 20, said: “We had a great comeback against Dragons, showing true grit, and that gives us confidence heading into this weekend as we know we can put out strong performances and we are getting better game by game.”