Published: 3 January, 2014
by STEVE BARNETT

ARSENAL Ladies star Rachel Yankey (above) has netted a magnificent double after being recognised yet again in the New Year Honours list.

The former Hampstead Schoolgirl and England’s most capped player received an MBE in 2005.

She is now looking forward to a return leg at Buckingham Palace after being awarded an OBE for her services to football.

Yankey, who has worked tirelessly to promote the game at youth level and runs her own football programme and a community club, said: “This very special award means a great deal to me, and I’m incredibly proud to have my work on and off the pitch recognised in this way.

“I have to say, I owe Arsenal a great deal for kickstarting my coaching and playing career. I started out as an Arsenal in the Community trainee, which is where my love of coaching and working with children began.

“As an Arsenal Ladies player I have been lucky enough to play with some of the best players in the country and helped contribute to the club’s unbelievable history.  

“To be recognised for my youth work, too, is totally humbling.”