Arsenal defender Katie Reid is one of the new call-ups to the England squad for their friendlies against Brazil and Australia this month.
And head coach Sarina Wiegman says it’s exciting news all round.
“It’s exciting for her, in the first place,” Wiegman said in a press conference on Tuesday morning.
“She started playing for Arsenal very quickly this season and a couple of moments last season.
“She’s done good in the pathway too and I just see some very good things on the pitch with her, and I hope she can show that in our environment too.
“I’m excited to see her in our environment and how she relates to other players in the squad.”
Katie Reid: Her career so far
Reid was named Arsenal’s player of the month for September, playing every minute of all their matches.
Her centre back partner Steph Catley recently told the club website: “Katie’s a highly intelligent footballer who can read the game so quickly. Having that technical skill means that even when she’s under pressure, she has the tools to get out of situations.
“With the type of personality that Katie has, it makes a lot of sense that she’s able to handle that pressure. She’s composed and calm, and that is so, so rare. That’s particularly impressive as a centre back.”
She added: “She’s still a young player who’s got a lot to learn, so as senior players, we just have to make sure that we’re guiding her in the best way possible. But she mostly has it all together herself anyway – [she’s a] player beyond her years. I can’t wait to see the way her career blossoms.”
Reid turned 19 last month.
She signed her first professional contract this time last year, under then-first-team head coach Jonas Eidevall, making 13 appearances in all competitions across the 2024-25 season.
She has previously spent time on loan at Watford, and was one of the stand-out players for the 2022-23 Arsenal academy team as well as the under-21s.
Arsenal’s start to the season
Despite the standout performances from some players, such as Reid, Arsenal have had a disappointing start to their season.
They currently sit fifth in the Women’s Super League, and their weekend win over Brighton and Hove Albion was their first in a month.
They made a losing start to their defence of their UEFA Women’s Champions League title, beaten 2-1 at Meadow Park by Lyon last week.
