Jodie Taylor made her second Arsenal debut in the 5-1 win over Spurs on Saturday, coming on as an 82nd minute substitute for Stina Blackstenius. Jodie spoke to the press after the match, the first three questions are from Arseblog News.
On how surreal it has been to sign for Arsenal again out of the blue…
“That’s football for you, anything can happen. It has been a crazy ten days. I was chilling in LA, training hard and waiting for an opportunity and trying to be ready for it. It’s very surreal but I am just thrilled to be here. So happy to be part of the team and to have got on in a convincing win.”
On playing in the WSL again after a six year absence…
“It felt like a real football game, I have been keeping tabs on the league since I left and it has gone from strength to strength. It is great to see the growth of the game, especially off the back of the Euros. It was really great to be pitchside. It is so good to be a part of it.”
On whether Jonas has spoken to her about her role for the remainder of the season…
“He hasn’t really said anything! I think purposefully he wants me to play my game and settle in before having that sort of discussion. Like I said, I landed ten days ago so it’s been a crazy time. I was really happy to get on today and help the team. However the team needs me I am here for it. It’s a great opportunity for me to come back on home soil I am still fit and healthy and capable of playing at this level and it’s great to get an opportunity at such a big club. I know there are injuries and there are a lot of games. However, Jonas sees my role to help us win trophies, I am totally here for it.”
On working with a personal coach over the last four months…
“It is tough because I had already been in an off-season so it’s been an extended off-season, unfortunately I haven’t played a game in a while. But I have been staying fit, a lot of running, a lot of conditioning, a lot of gym and individual training and small group stuff. It doesn’t quite mimic a game but I did the best I possibly could. A lot of individual work in front of goal, keeping my body right and working on a few things in front of goal- as much as you can possibly do on your own! I have done small group stuff, hopefully that prepares me well for this step.”
On passing on her experience to her teammates…
“The longer you stay in the game, the more you try to pass your experience onto other players. I have enjoyed that as I have got to the late stages of my career. I am a team player, I love being in a team, I just want to see my team do well. I am still fit and healthy, I can still play and I think that’s an important message to older players as well, it’s not over till it’s over- I am still going. I am just so happy to be here and the squad have really welcomed me. I know a lot of players from the past, I played with Caitlin Foord nine years ago! I have been on three teams now with Steph Catley, there is a handful of girls who were here when i played here five years ago. The new girls and the staff have all been amazing at integrating me and making me feel welcome.
Welcome home
Hope you get up to speed very soon, Jodie.
I wish we had done this deal earlier!
Jodie had more attempts on goal in her 10 minute cameo than the whole of Spud’s team in 90!!
Looks sharp and part of the team already. Shame she’s not available Wednesday.