Soccer-Arsenal's Williamson 'happy to be back' after nine-month injury layoff

Arsenal captain Leah Williamson said she was delighted to be back on the pitch after rupturing her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) nine months ago. The 26-year-old, who also captains her country, missed England's run to the final of the Women's World Cup last year, where they suffered a 1-0 defeat to Spain. She made her return, coming on as a substitute, during Arsenal's 6-0 win over Reading in the Women's League Cup on Wednesday.

Arsenal captain Leah Williamson said she was delighted to be back on the pitch after rupturing her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) nine months ago. The 26-year-old, who also captains her country, missed England's run to the final of the Women's World Cup last year, where they suffered a 1-0 defeat to Spain.

She made her return, coming on as a substitute, during Arsenal's 6-0 win over Reading in the Women's League Cup on Wednesday. Williamson went on to assist Beth Mead's goal. "It's been a long journey but it has gone really quickly," Williamson told Sky Sports News. "Special people get you through tough times. I love playing football for Arsenal. I'm just happy to be back and try and help my team."