Arsenal Player-coach Kelly Smith signs new deal
Thursday 25 February 2016 15:25, UK
Arsenal player-coach Kelly Smith has signed a new deal to extend her contract at the club.
The 37-year-old England legend began her career at Arsenal aged 16 and has scored over 100 times and helped lift 24 trophies during her three spells at the club.
The England all time record goal scorer retired from international duties in 2015, and spent most of last season suffering with a long-term injury following a tackle from Sunderland player Abby Holmes that left Smith needing surgery on her ankle.
With this new contract Smith will continue to assist manager Pedro Martinez Losa on the touchline while still being available for playing duties.
Speaking to the club website, she said "I'm delighted to give my services to the club again,"
"I'm Arsenal through and through. The injury was not how I wanted to finish the season but I'm delighted to have put pen to paper and stay at the club I love dearly.
"Ever since I first put the shirt on, I've been so proud to do it every time. On matchdays, you are representing, for me, the best club in England. In terms of tradition and wining trophies, you ask anyone about winning trophies in ladies football, they will say Arsenal is the best team.
"To be part of that and that history, I feel a bit like part of the furniture. It is just a privilege to represent such a great club."
