The attacking midfielder started each of the opening three Barclays Women's Championship fixtures, scoring her first goal of the campaign in last weekend's 2-0 victory against Portsmouth Women.
McQuade has carried over an impressive run of form which saw her finish the 2023-24 season with 12 goals from 13 starts in all competitions, on route to winning the FA Women's National League Northern Premier Division.
A graduate of the Magpies' development squad, the 22-year-old admits that she is pleased by how quickly she has adapted to competing at a higher level, following last season's promotion.
"It's been a positive step up to the Championship so far," she said. "I didn't expect to adapt as quickly, so I'm glad that I've been able to make that step and get so many minutes on the pitch. It's been a really proud month for me.
"I've got to say that the highlight for me personally has been the goal against Portsmouth. I didn't know how long it would take to get my first one, so I'm glad it came in the opening month."
As one of the younger members of the squad, McQuade hinted that she's benefiting from the guidance of experienced summer signings like Demi Stokes and Rachel Furness.
"You've got players coming in with so much experience, and it's players that you’ve grown up watching," she said. "You do fangirl a bit at first, but you get used to it. It's nice to know that they've got your best interests in mind, and they help us equally both on and off the pitch."
Despite admitting to being an ambitious character, United's number 21 highlights that she is currently focused on achieving her short-term goal of maintaining a regular starting position.
"I worked hard throughout pre-season to get the opportunity to start the first game," she added. "When you get that chance, you just want to put in a good performance so that you can retain your place the week after.
"Your performances in training come into consideration as well, and I feel like I've been on form. My personal goal is to stay within the team and retain the form I'm on at the minute."
