Leah Williamson has paid tribute to her family and friends after making her long-awaited comeback from a serious knee injury. The 26-year-old England captain came off the bench during Arsenal's 6-0 win at Reading in the Continental Cup on Wednesday night, her first appearance for the Gunners since suffering an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury nine months ago.
Williamson required surgery and was forced to watch England's run to the World Cup final, which they lost 1-0 to Spain, from the sidelines. After her return, she posted an emotional message on Instagram: 'We never know what is around the corner, so enjoy the MOMENTS. Pay into your friendships and your family, without them it gets pretty grim.'
Her team-mates responded warmly, with Beth Mead writing, 'Couldn't be prouder of you Leah Cathrine,' and Chloe Kelly adding, 'Like you've never been away, so happy for you.' Both Mead and Kelly have recovered from their own ACL injuries in recent years. Williamson also told Sky Sports: 'It was lovely. You think a lot about how that moment is going to be and it was perfect.'
Williamson's return is a significant boost for Arsenal, who are third in the Women's Super League, three points behind leaders Chelsea, and still competing in the FA Cup and Continental Cup. England manager Sarina Wiegman will also be pleased to have Williamson available again, with no major tournaments on the immediate horizon. The Lionesses did not qualify for the Nations League finals or the Olympics, and their next fixture is yet to be confirmed.
Williamson will aim to finish the season strongly and stay fit ahead of the Euros in Switzerland next summer, where England are the defending champions after beating Germany in the Euro 2022 final.
