Lionesses goalkeeper Ellie Roebuck makes comeback from stroke 19 months after last appearance with Barcelona debut - but denied dream clean sheet in last minute

Roebuck revealed in March that she had sustained a stroke last year and had been dealing with the repercussions, after going months without playing for Manchester City. The England international, who has won 11 caps for her country, joined Barcelona on a free transfer in the summer after it was confirmed that she would make a full recovery.

On Saturday, she officially returned to the pitch 19 months after her last appearance at any level, playing in Barca's win over Betis. She was denied a clean sheet in the last minute, however, as Yasmine Zouhir netted a 90th-minute consolation as the Catalan giants won 4-1.

Roebuck wrote on Instagram: "303 days later. The goal was always to play the game I love again and at times it felt impossible but to do it for @fcbfemeni is a dream. It’s been a journey thank you to everyone who’s supported me along the way nothing will ever beat this feeling."

Barcelona play Hammarby in the Champions League in midweek before a clash with Valencia next weekend. They are currently top of Liga F, having won all 12 of their 12 fixtures thus far.