Arsenal Captain Awarded MBE

Arsenal Ladies captain Faye White has been awarded an MBE (Member of the British Empire) in the new year’s honours list.

White, who also skippers England Ladies has been out for five months with a serious knee injury and is set to miss most of the season.

Despite her award she remains modest and took the chance to thank those who have supported her through her career.

Speaking to Arsenal.com she said: ‘It’s such a shock, you really don’t expect something like that.

‘I heard about it in November because I got a letter notifying me. I have kept it quiet – I just told my family – but in truth it has taken this long to sink in.

‘Just seeing my family’s reaction shows how much it means to them because of the support they have given me.

‘Vic was also one of the first people I told because I have been at Arsenal for 11 years and he has been so important to my career and other girls’ careers too.

‘It’s hard to get used to the idea because usually you win trophies as a team and that’s what I enjoy so much. But it is great to see the happiness it has given my family, the people who have helped me get where I am.

‘That goes for my team-mates too – you can’t play football without a team and I have to thank them too.

‘It’s a good ending to a weird year for me. England have qualified for the World Cup, Arsenal have won trophies and reached the Uefa Cup Final but I’ve been injured for the last five months. It’s been hard but getting this will really spur me on.’

Congratulations Faye, get well soon.