The full-back has been ever-present for Becky Langley's side following the winter break, after overcoming a three-month spell on the sidelines with a fractured fibula, suffered in the opening game of the season against London City Lionesses.

Cataldo's string of impressive performances have since helped the Magpies on an unbeaten run, securing four points and Women's FA Cup progression over the past month.

"After being out with injury for a lot of the season, I wanted to make an instant impact when I came back and I'm glad that I’ve been able to help the team," said the 23-year-old.

She added: "Getting through to the next round of the FA Cup was amazing, but I feel like every league game is so important to us right now too. It's hard to pick a standout moment of the month. I'm just really happy to pick up this this award.

The former England Youth international credited recent form to the support of her teammates and the club's coaching staff, who have made Newcastle feel like a 'home away from home' since joining from Crystal Palace Women 12 months ago.

"I'm absolutely loving it. I'd say I've definitely settled here. It took me a bit of time being so far from home, but I've got lots of great friends in the team and had great staff around to help me settle in. They've all been really supportive.

"I'm feeling confident and the coaching team has helped me to feel that way, particularly by showing their belief in me after coming back from injury. We've got a lot of experience in the team, which is helping too. Training sessions recently have been great. I feel like we all came into January with the same goal - we know that we really need to kick on, and it's going to be a massive second half of the season."

After collecting the Sela Player of the Month award, Cataldo set sights on continuing to evolve her role within the team ahead of the all-important second stage of the campaign.

"This month in particular, I've been focusing on helping higher up the pitch. I want to be a full back that gets up the field and does the defensive work at the same time. So, for me personally, my aim is to get a few assists and bring that sort of attacking intent into my game.

"I really want to continue building on the start I've made this year and do everything I can to help the team achieve our goal. I'm very happy with my performances January, but I still want to kick on and do even better going forward.

"I'm really glad to be back in the squad and doing my bit for the team, but I'm still working extremely hard to improve week in, week out."