ARSENAL LADIES legend Kelly Smith called it quits at international level in 2015 as England’s Women’s all-time leading scorer.
Smith was awarded an MBE in 2008 for her services to the women’s game.
Find out about her glittering career below.
Kelly Smith won the FA Cup five times with Arsenal LadiesCredit: PA:Press Association
Who is Kelly Smith and which clubs has she played for?
Smith began her professional career with Wembley Ladies in 1996 and earned a move to Arsenal two years later.
She left the Gunners for America in 1999 – playing for the New Jersey Lady Stallions, Philadelphia Charge and New Jersey Wildcats in her eight years Stateside.
Smith represented England for two decades
Smith, 38, netted an incredible 73 goals in 66 games after returning to Arsenal to earn a switch to the Boston breakers.
She returned to Arsenal in 2012.
What has Kelly Smith won?
Smith played for Great Britain at the 2012 OlympicsCredit: Getty Images
Smith won a total of 20 trophies over her three spells at Arsenal – scoring scoring 30 goals in 34 games across all four competitions during their quadruple-winning 2006–07 season.
She earned 117 caps in a two-decade England career and represented Great Britain at London 2012.
The striker was shortlisted for Fifa Women’s World Player of the Year award four times and won the FA Player of the Year award twice.
Her honours include four Premier League titles, a Uefa Women’s Cup and five FA Cups.
What was Kelly Smith’s style of play?
Smith is England’s all time leading scorerCredit: PA:Press Association
Described as England’s first superstar, Smith is probably the best female British player ever despite a series of serious injuries.
BBC Match of the Day commentator Jonathan Pearce said: “In terms of technique, when she was in her pomp, she was way above anything else coming out of the UK at that time.
“She had power, strength, a lovely eye for a pass, finishing of course and was so dynamic in the penalty area.
“She was a leader because of the way she played, that she demanded respect from her opponents and team-mates. She was the first England women’s football superstar.
“You have only got to hear the top names in the global game talking about her to know how good she was.”
Is Kelly Smith married?
Kelly married her partner DeAnna Dobosz on Hampstead Heath in June 2016, in a ceremony attended by some of their closest friends.
She gave birth to a son named Rocco Jude in May 2017.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
