Leah Williamson Reflects on Arsenal’s Season, Coaching, and Her 150th WSL Appearance

Alex Scott conducted an interview with Leah Williamson in anticipation of the north London derby. The complete interview will be broadcast on Saturday as part of BBC One’s coverage. Williamson addressed several subjects during their discussion. Regarding Arsenal’s season start, Williamson stated: “It did not start how we wanted to. We have ambitions to go out and win every game that we play because that is the team that we are. Sometimes the performances were maybe better than the result and that is hard as well when you feel you are fighting against that.” Addressing the criticism directed at Jonas Eidevall and his departure, Williamson remarked: “It’s difficult. We are all human beings and those fans don’t know the person that he is. He was understanding of the situation that we have a job to do. It’s sad when you see someone getting attacked and you know that they are a great person. But we know how it goes and it has been the same in the men’s game for so many years.” Concerning Renee Slegers, Williamson commented: “Renee knows us all. She has connected with everyone individually. We got into a bit of a rut with low confidence and she has just stripped it back and wants the best out of every player. It’s working. She is another Dutch manager, she is very direct and says it as it is. Ultimately we go out every week to be better than the week before. We are doing great and everything looks rosy at the minute. We have had great results and we are working really hard.” Regarding her upcoming 150th WSL appearance on Saturday, Williamson stated: “I did not know that. It’s nice. Milestones are coming around fast. I feel I have worked very hard for every single one of them. To top it off playing against Spurs, it is my favourite fixture. My dad is Spurs, my mum is Arsenal. I know as a fan and as a player there is so much to play for. They are fiercely loyal to their club and so are we. It’s a beautiful thing.”