ISLINGTON NOW

As debuts go, Suzanne Grant’s wasn’t at all bad. The Arsenal striker didn’t expect to play in last month’s Women’s Premier League Cup final victory, having signed for the club just six days earlier. Instead, she scored within minutes of coming onto the pitch.

Suzanne Grant in action for Arsenal Ladies

“I was absolutely delighted to sign for Arsenal; it’s always been a dream of mine to play here,” says Grant.

“I got called up to the squad and I wasn’t really expecting to play, having just signed a contract. To score was definitely a nice surprise.”

Arsenal Ladies‘ latest signing has a lot to live up to. Kelly Smith, labelled “the best player in the world” by several international coaches, left the club this month for Major League Soccer side the Boston Breakers.

Since signing for the Gunners in 2005, Smith has scored more than a goal a game and has also been talismanic for England. In this regard, it is no exaggeration to compare her to David Beckham. Grant is charged with replacing her.

“I don’t think anyone can fill Kelly’s boots; she’s probably one of the best players in the world,” says Grant. “It’s a big task but it’s also a privilege. I just want to go down each week, try and get some goals and concentrate on helping out as part of the team. But Kelly is definitely in an exceptional class and I don’t think people can compete with her.”

Grant supports Smith’s decision to play in America but believes that British clubs need to do more to ensure their players aren’t tempted by MLS clubs offering big money:

“We need our best players to stay in the country. That’s the only way for us to increase our support and if we can’t keep the best girls then it’ll be difficult to improve our game.

“I can’t blame anyone who moves [to the MLS]. It’s not for everyone but if you have the chance to do it, it’s a great opportunity.”

Grant was signed from Edinburgh club Hibernian last month and currently lives in Glasgow. Since the women’s game remains semi-professional, she commutes to London once a week to play.

“I train every night of the week up in Scotland. My circumstances mean I can’t fly down every time to train so I just go to London for the games.”

Apart from cementing Arsenal’s top spot in the league, Grant admits her current priorities rest on finding steady work: “I did have a job up north but I’ve just moved and I’m trying to get another bit of office work.

“It’s hard to find a company that will accommodate you flying to London every Thursday night, especially with things as they are. ”

Grant hopes to repay the faith shown in her by Ladies Coach Vik Akers and earn a new, long-term contract at the club.

“When you play with Arsenal, you get your own kit, get training and get looked after really well by the staff. It’s so professional.

“I just want to play well for the rest of the season and hopefully get rewarded with a new contract. That would be another dream fulfilled.”