Emma Mitchell in action for Reading FC Women against Manchester City. Photo: Neil Graham.
Emma Mukandi in action for Reading FC Women against Manchester City. Photo: Neil Graham.

‘We can’t wait!’ Reading FC Women’s Emma Mitchell set for return

The Royals full-back is due to return to the squad following maternity leave

‘We can’t wait to have you back’ were the words of Reading FC Women manager Kelly Chambers after the news defender Emma Mitchell was due to return to the FA Women’s Super League following maternity leave.

29-year-old Scottish international Mitchell revealed her return to the club on Social Media saying: “Time flies – maternity leave is over! I’ve had the best 8 months with my baby but I’m looking forward to getting the boots back on tomorrow. Roll on the new season.”

The former Arsenal defender – who has 62 caps for Scotland – joined Reading in 2020 and played 14 times for the Royals in the FA WSL.

In response to the news, Chambers wrote: “And we can’t wait to have you back” while a number of supporters and teammates past and present were also clearly delighted by the news.

Arsenal’s Katie McCabe said: “Gonna smash it,” while Royals supporter Maureen Lewis wrote: “Good luck, Emma. Being a mum with young baby and a pro footballer can’t be easy. I missed you playing last season. Stay well and fit and get some sleep when poss!! Best wishes from Maureen Lewis. (Your sponsor from a couple of seasons ago). xx.”

Samantha Moss said: “Good luck Emma! It’s so important for new mothers to see this is possible!”

Football in Berkshire is delighted to see Emma back on the pitch and we look forward to seeing her in action again this season.

Read next: Reading FC Women’s Lily Woodham named ‘Proud Royals’ ambassador

100 Berkshire Football Icons

As we’re nearly 10 years old, we’d like to create a big list of a hundred Berkshire football icons who’ve made an impact on and off the pitch over the last 10 years.

Upcoming fixtures

Sunday 11th January 2026

Kidlington Youth Womens14:00Rotherfield United Women
Newbury Women14:00Burghfield Ladies Reserves
Southampton Women14:00Woodley United
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