Returning England star Leah Williamson has revealed the best way to stop her Arsenal teammate Katie McCabe.
Stopping the supply into the Ireland captain, says the versatile Gunners defender, is the most effective way of keeping the Tallaght native quiet.
The pair have been clubmates since McCabe’s 2015 move from Shelbourne to Arsenal.
So it was no surprise that Williamson was asked for her view on how to tame the Tallaght native.
“Well, if she doesn’t have the ball, she can’t do anything. That’s a good start,” she replied, earning the approval of her England manager Sarina Wiegman.
“I was hoping for that answer,” said the Dutchwoman.
Williamson spoke in glowing terms about both McCabe and the strength of the current Ireland team.
“Katie is a big personality, someone who is very proud of where she comes from and has been authentic with that with the fans so a lot of people connect to her in that way,” she said.
“She knows her strengths and she has those strengths that can be game-changing as well.
“And she is someone who has raised the profile of the game, her game, and subsequently Arsenal. She has been an important player for us over the last couple of years.”
As for the rest of Eileen Gleeson’s side, she added: “I am expecting them to be really disciplined in the way that they defend.
“I saw the 1-0 result against France. I think it’s going to be a test for us to move the ball, move them, you can see the battles.
“They have got key players up top but also a strong defensive line as well. I know all those girls really well so it’s going to be a good one.”
Williamson, Wiegman confirmed, will make her long-awaited England return on Tuesday night in the Aviva Stadium.
She missed last summer’s World Cup because of a ruptured ACL and only returned at club level in late-January, while she made the bench in last Friday’s 1-1 draw with Sweden.
“I have enjoyed watching the girls and enjoyed being a part of that journey in a different way,” she said of her absence. “I have people who play for the team who are very important to me.
“It's been a difficult journey but I would be lying if I said it wasn't the thing I had my focus on.
“This is where I wanted to get back to. I wanted to get back into this squad. I have had some of the best memories of my life being a part of this team.
“It will be (emotional), it was emotional on Friday. I am an emotional person. You have all seen me cry on many occasions.”
England boss Wiegman, meanwhile, said she was impressed by the Irish performance in Metz last Friday.
“They were promoted to this group and I think don’t ever underestimate anyone, especially Ireland,” she said.
“They had a 1-0 result against France which I think was really good.
“They are a physical team, very well organised and can play counterattack. They will try to take the opportunity moments of trying to jump out so we’ll be aware of that.
“Their defence will definitely be difficult to break down.”
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