Leah: “We have to be happy with today”

Leah Williamson was in high spirits following our 1-0 pre-season win over Paris FC at Mangata Developments Stadium on Sunday.

Our centre-back provided her initial thoughts on the late win, with Olivia Smith netting a beautiful strike in the 91st minute.

“Obviously really nice to get a win to finish the game off strong,” she said. “Loads of things that we've been working on on show, loads more things to come, so all in all, we have to be happy with today.

“Obviously you want to score that goal in the first half or at a different time than the 91st minute, but you'll take it, won't you?”

Up until the weekend, all of our pre-season matches had been played behind closed doors, so it was nice to be back in front of supporters in Borehamwood and to feel the noise from them.

“Obviously coming out in front of them for the first time, especially for the new players, you want to showcase yourself but also get them excited for a new season,” Leah added. “So I hope that the football was on show. Obviously we love coming to Borehamwood, and then on to the Emirates.”

Asked how our summer signings are settling into the side, she continued: “I think well, you'd have to ask them, but from my perspective on the pitch, I think you can see the willingness and the commitment.

“I think what I can say is that everybody's happy to be at Arsenal and they want to be at Arsenal and they want to play for this club and they're giving the best of themselves. So it should be an exciting year for Arsenal fans.”