‘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
