Caitlin Foord spoke to The Gooner ahead of Arsenal’s final home match of the season at the Emirates, reflecting on life under Renée Slegers, staying sharp across a long campaign, and the special atmosphere of North London. 

When asked by the Gooner what she’s enjoyed most about playing under Slegers, Foord said: 

“I think it’s the freedom that we have, especially as a frontline, which you’ve probably seen kind of interchange… when you’re in that part of the field, it’s just kind of you express yourself and… bring your qualities to the front, and yeah, I think that’s probably what I’ve enjoyed the most.” 

Arsenal have played a lot of matches this season, and Foord has been included in the majority, including from the first round of UWCL qualification, all the way back in September. She spoke about what’s helped her stay sharp and motivated through such a long campaign.

“Yeah, I mean I think it’s just the next goal. We wanted to fight for a lot more trophies this season, and, you know, when we fell short on one of those… we still had this one, and when it came to the Champions League, it was kind of like this is the last opportunity to keep fighting for, and I think that’s what got us over the line in Lyon, and hopefully in a few weeks.” 

With over 45,000 fans expected at the Emirates for Arsenal’s final home game of the season, Foord spoke about what it means to her: 

“Every time we walk out onto the Emirates, it’s an incredible atmosphere. And I think I’ve heard there’s 45,000 [tickets sold], so it feels full and I’m sure there’s going to be more as well. So yeah, I think it’s just a big occasion, a lot of fans, the fans obviously follow us everywhere as well, we want to finish it off on a high, not only for us, but for them.”