England captain Leah Williamson has opened up about the refreshing change of pace that joining the Lionesses has brought amidst a challenging start to the season with her club, Arsenal. The 24-year-old defender returned to England duty on Monday as part of manager Sarina Wiegman’s 24-player squad, following a testing period for the Gunners that saw the resignation of manager Jonas Eidevall last week.
A Much-Needed Break from Club Struggles
Arsenal’s recent defeats, including a 5-2 humbling by Bayern Munich in the Champions League and a 2-1 loss to Chelsea in the Women’s Super League (WSL), have taken a toll on the team. Williamson, who has been with Arsenal since the preseason due to the lack of a September international window, admitted that the break from club football has come at the “right time.”
“I’m a footballer, our job is to win games and that hasn’t happened so smoothly,” she told a news conference on Thursday. “Results tell a story, performance is another thing that you can actually change and affect on a day-to-day basis and to be honest, I’m happy to be here in a different environment.”
– Leah Williamson
Refreshing Change of Environment
The England captain emphasized the refreshing nature of being in a different environment with the national team, noting that it has come at the right time given the challenges faced at the club level. Williamson expressed her love for playing for England and how the change of pace is noticeable after spending an extended period with Arsenal due to the altered international break schedule.
“To be here in this environment is refreshing, obviously; it is natural for that to be the case at this time and playing for this team, everyone knows how much we love it. I think you see that every day.”
– Leah Williamson
Focusing on the Lionesses
With friendlies against Germany and South Africa on the horizon, Williamson is fully focused on her duties as England captain. The defender emphasized the importance of being in the moment and giving her all for the national team, leaving club concerns behind for the time being.
“Since I’ve been here, I’ve had no contact with the club. To be here in this environment is refreshing, obviously; it is natural for that to be the case at this time and playing for this team, everyone knows how much we love it.”
– Leah Williamson
A Different Start to the Season
Williamson acknowledged the unique circumstances surrounding the start of the season, with the Lionesses spending an extended period with their clubs due to the absence of a September international window. This break from the usual routine has been a new experience for the players, who are accustomed to having international duties interspersed throughout the season.
“It’s been a different start to the season. Obviously, we’ve been at club for a long time. Normally, we’d have an international break window before this so it’s been different in that sense of being there [with Arsenal] for so long and being in one place, we’re not used to that.”
– Leah Williamson
Looking Ahead
As the Lionesses prepare for their upcoming friendlies, Williamson’s focus remains squarely on her role as England captain. The refreshing change of environment and the opportunity to represent her country have provided a much-needed break from the challenges faced at the club level. With her leadership and determination, Williamson hopes to guide the Lionesses to success in their upcoming matches and beyond, while also using this time to recharge and refocus ahead of her return to Arsenal.
Key Takeaways
- Leah Williamson finds solace and refreshment with the England national team amid Arsenal’s struggles
- The break from club football has come at the right time for the England captain
- Williamson emphasizes the importance of being in the moment and focusing on her duties with the Lionesses
- The extended period with clubs due to the lack of a September international window has been a new experience for players
- Williamson remains determined to guide the Lionesses to success in their upcoming friendlies against Germany and South Africa
As Leah Williamson navigates the challenges of a difficult start to the season with Arsenal, her role as England captain provides a refreshing change of pace and an opportunity to recharge. With her leadership and focus, the Lionesses look poised for success in their upcoming matches, while Williamson hopes to use this time to refocus and return to her club with renewed determination.
