Arsenal legend Smith returns as assistant coach

Kelly Smith has returned to Arsenal as women's first-team assistant coach.

Smith, who spent time coaching with Arsenal during the second half of last season, will work with the club's attacking players.

The 44-year-old had three previous spells with the Gunners as a player, scoring 130 goals in 156 games.

Smith won five league titles, five FA Cups and the UEFA Women's Cup - now the Champions League - with Arsenal.

After agreeing her return to north London, Smith said: "I grew up an Arsenal fan and was fortunate enough to play for the club for a number of years, so I'm delighted to be back in this capacity.

"It's a dream come true for me to be back in this environment. I'm really excited to be working with the attacking players in the squad and I want to draw on my experience both at Arsenal and across the game to contribute to us achieving our goals together."

Discussing the return of Smith - who also played over 100 times for England - Clare Wheatley, Arsenal's head of women's football, said: "There are few people who understand what it means to represent Arsenal Women like Kelly Smith, so we are delighted to confirm that she has joined us as assistant coach.