WE’RE GUNNER HAVE to stop KATIE

MARK MCCADDEN

BY

RETURNING England star Leah Williamson has revealed the best way to stop her Arsenal team-mate Katie Mccabe – cut out the supply to the Ireland captain.

The pair have been clubmates since Mccabe’s 2015 move from Shelbourne to Arsenal, so it was no surprise Williamson (right) was asked for her view on how to tame the Tallaght star. “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 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.

“I know all those girls really well so it’s going to be a good one.”

England boss Wiegman, meanwhile, said she was impressed by the Irish in Metz last Friday. “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.”