Published: 26 September, 2013
by STEVE BARNETT

SHE might be looking forward to making a name for herself in the Women’s Super League now, but Sophie revealed how it was only a long-standing friendship with a Gunner great that stopped her from quitting the game.

Ex-Arsenal Ladies and England international Kirsty Pealling was Sophie’s first coach when she joined Hampstead’s Under-12s. The pair have remained friends ever since and now work side-by-side as part of Camden’s Sports Development Team.

“When I got relegated with QPR I was ready to quit,” said Sophie. “But Kirsty told me I was too talented to just walk away. Going from QPR to Chelsea is a massive jump and Kirsty has helped me believe that I can deal with it.

“She is one of the main reasons why I’m playing football.”