25 January 2024 , 11:10
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Leah Williamson has paid tribute to her family and friends after making her long-awaited comeback from a serious knee injury.
Williamson, 26, came off the bench during Arsenal's 6-0 win at Reading in the Continental Cup on Wednesday night. It was the England captain's first appearance for the Gunners since suffering an anterior crucial ligament (ACL) injury nine months ago, which ruled her out of last year's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
Williamson required surgery to fix her damaged ACL and was forced to watch England's run to the final, which they lost 1-0 to Spain, on the sidelines. Yet the Arsenal defender is now fit again and has posted an emotional message on Instagram after her comeback.
"We never know what is around the corner, so enjoy the MOMENTS," wrote Williamson. "Pay into your friendships and your family, without them it gets pretty grim."
Williamson's team-mates at both club and international levels were quick to respond. "Couldn't be prouder of you Leah Cathrine," wrote Beth Mead in the comments, while Chloe Kelly added: "Like you've never been away, so happy for you."
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Both Mead and Kelly have recovered from their own ACL injuries in recent years. Those type of injuries are more common in the women's game than the men's, as 37 players - including Mead - missed last year's World Cup because of ACL problems.
Williamson also told Sky Sports after Wednesday's game: "It was lovely. You think a lot about how that moment is going to be and it was perfect."
She added: "It's been a long journey but it has gone really quickly. The girls I've had around me - it's special. Special people get you through tough times. I love playing for Arsenal. I'm happy to be back and (will) try to help my team."
Williamson celebrated with family and friends after making her comeback (Getty Images)How important is Leah Williamson to Arsenal and England? Let us know in the comments below!
Williamson's return is a huge boost to Arsenal's hopes of winning silverware this season. The Gunners, who have already been knocked out of the Champions League, are third in the Women's Super League table - just three points behind leaders Chelsea. They are also going strong in the FA Cup and Continental Cup.
"I'm really happy that she is close to coming back," said Arsenal defender Amanda Ilestedt ahead of Williamson's return. "We need her in the squad."
England boss Sarina Wiegman will also be happy to have Williamson available again. Wiegman doesn't need to rush the player back, with no major tournaments on the horizon. The Lionesses didn't qualify for the Nations League finals, which take place next month, or the Olympics in France later this year. England's next fixture is to be confirmed.
Williamson will try to finish the season strongly and stay fit ahead of the Euros, which take place in Switzerland next summer. England are the defending champions after beating Germany 2-1 in the Euro 2022 final at Wembley 18 months ago.