England captain Williamson returns after lengthy injury layoff

England captain Leah Williamson played her first competitive match in nine months on Wednesday as she returned from an ACL injury.

Williamson was injured in April while on duty at Arsenal, but after a lengthy rehabilitation she came on as a second-half substitute in their 6-0 win over Reading in the Conti Cup on Wednesday night.

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The versatile Arsenal player led the Lionesses to Euro 2022 glory, but injury prevented her from competing for England at the 2023 Women's World Cup in Australia. Williamson's return will be a huge boost for Arsenal and England.

Williamson came on in the 61st minute for Jen Beattie and provided an assist for Beth Mead as Arsenal moved past Reading.

Speaking about his return to the pitch, Williamson told Sky Sports News: “It was lovely. You think a lot about what that moment is going to be and it was perfect.

I love playing football for Arsenal. Everyone knows how much I love the club. I'll get emotional if I talk about it too much. I'm just happy to be back and try to help my team.”

England play two friendlies in February, then begin their Euro qualifying campaign in April and Williamson will be hoping to be back in the Lionesses squad. She said: “I missed playing for England so hopefully I can get back into contention and see what happens.”