Arsenal head coach Renee Slegers has highlighted the significant impact Leah Williamson return has had on the squad as the team prepares for their Champions League fixture against OH Leuven.
Renee Slegers: Leah Williamson has brought a “positive injection”
Speaking in a press conference ahead of the European clash, Renee Slegers was clear that the presence of Leah Williamson had lifted spirits and reinforced standards both on and off the pitch.
She said: “Yes, it always gives an injection when players come back from injury because the rest of the squad gets really happy and it just creates a positive energy.”
Slegers was keen to stress that Williamson’s influence goes beyond her performances. Having come through the club from a young age her emotional connection to Arsenal plays a major role in how she leads.
“Of course, with Leah, she’s one of our leaders. She’s been at the club since she was a little child and she feels strongly for the club and that brings something, of course.”
Slegers also praised her intelligence and ability to read situations quickly particularly in high pressure moments.
“But then also her leadership in and around the team, on the pitch, she’s very intelligent. Solving things in the moment and she brings so much quality in the centre-back position.”
For a side competing on multiple fronts that composure is crucial. Slegers described Williamson’s return as a clear positive injection adding balance and reassurance to the defensive unit.
Williamson return brings competition in defence
Williamson made her Arsenal return in their 3-1 victory over Everton as a late substitute.
With Williamson back available, Slegers also addressed how defensive partnerships are shaping up as Arsenal prepare for a busy run of fixtures across several competitions.
“We have five competitions we’re competing in from January on, with the Women’s Champions Cup coming in there. So we’re going to need everyone.”
She pointed to the strong understanding that has developed between Steph Catley and Lotte Wubben-Moy in recent matches while also noting the familiarity Williamson shares with both players.
Slegers said: “You see that Steph and Lotte have a really good partnership built throughout the last blocks. Leah and Steph have played a lot together. Leah and Lotte were together on the pitch against Everton and looked really good.”
She added: “I’m just really happy with the quality that we have. And I think it’s them taking really good ownership of building those relationships and partnerships with each other. And that’s been on a really high level.”
As Arsenal turn their attention to Champions League action the return of their club’s vice-captain offers both a psychological lift and a practical advantage. For Slegers, having Williamson back strengthens central areas and reinforces leadership at a crucial point in the season.
