Watford's new signing Gemma Bryan talks to SOTB about Watford's season ahead in the FA WSL second tier. With past experiences playing for Millwall, Charlton and LA Strikers, Gemma's goal scoring ability is sure to boost Watford's chances once she regains her full fitness.
I'm doing well, training hard in rehab and looking forward to competing in the WSL for Watford. I think all the girls are excited about the new league and the fresh challenge it will present.
Q. In 2010/11, you helped secure promotion with Charlton and won the top scorer award. Was that the highlight of your career would you say? And do you think you can have the same impact at Watford once back to full fitness?
That was a great achievement, I think so far that is my greatest success in football. Hopefully I can add some experience, we've a young and very talented squad so I hope I can have an impact once fully fit.
Q. Are there any teams you see as rivals in the league? Especially with your old club Millwall in the same division.
It will be very interesting this season, and very competitive, there have been plenty of signings happening throughout the league and the clubs have had a long time to prepare for the forthcoming season. Millwall have a decent set up and they've added some good players to their squad so it will be an interesting opening fixture.
I hope so! The injury prevented me from playing, so it's something I'd like to be able do again one day.
It's been different at every club. At Watford we have some team meetings at Vicarage Road and a team photo shoot. I think there is a good set up as a club here with both the men's and women's teams. I've not been here long enough to see too much so far.
Q. With the second tier being created for the FA WSL and more matches being shown on TV, positive steps are happening in women's football. How does this feel for the players to see the game developing more and being invested in?
It's important not just for women's football, but for women's sports all together. There should be no reason why women shouldn't be able to compete at a professional level full time. Women's football has been spoken about for a long time in England so I think players competing deserve some recognition and coverage.
Q. You're a qualified personal trainer and a model for W Athletic, do you find it hard juggling your time between those and football? It's difficult, to juggle work between games and training, recovery is important, and sometimes you have to get used to feeling tired!!
Q. What does the future hold for you Gemma, in terms of continuing playing? Would you like to get into coaching or refereeing at all?
I'd like to play as long as I'm physically able to compete at a high standard. The idea of coaching interest me.. Defiantly not refereeing though!
Q. And finally, who do you see as your football idol/hero? And what advice would you give to any young girls wanting to become footballers?
Robin Van Persie! This still, coming from an arsenal fan! I think he's a great professional and a player who has developed his game every year.
Robin Van Persie! This still, coming from an arsenal fan! I think he's a great professional and a player who has developed his game every year.
My advice to young girls wanting to become female football players is to believe in your own ability and work hard. Hard work always pays off.
Many thanks for your answers Gemma, good luck for the new season.
Many thanks for your answers Gemma, good luck for the new season.
