England goalkeeper Ellie Roebuck said it was “a dream” to return to playing after almost a year out following a stroke.

The 25-year-old revealed in March that she sustained a “left occipital infarct” last year but there was no lasting damage to her brain or vision.

Roebuck, who left Manchester City for Barcelona in June after her contract expired, made her debut in Saturday’s 4-1 win over Real Betis.

“303 days later. The goal was always to play the game I love again,” she posted on Instagram, external after the game.

“At times it felt impossible but to do it for Barcelona is a dream.

“It’s been a journey. Thank you to everyone who has supported me along the way. Nothing will ever beat this feeling.”

Roebuck made more than 100 appearances for City and has 11 England caps. She was part of England’s Euro 2022-winning squad.

Barca are top of the Primera Division with 12 wins from 12 games this season.

Winners of the Champions League for the past three seasons, they travel to Swedish side Hammarby in the group stage on Thursday.