But just six months ahead of Euro 2005, to be hosted by England, key player Smith has revealed that she almost quit football after the latest in a series of serious injuries.

After recovering from cruciate ligament damage – her second long term knee problem in two years – she had her leg broken while playing in America’s W-League last July.

That ended what had started as a great season for Smith, who had hit eight goals in eight games as she skippered New Jersey Wildcats to the top of the table.

"The last three years have been hell with injuries," says Smith, "and after the last one I got so low that I thought I might decide not to play again.

"It was such a cheap challenge that broke my leg and I felt so sick. I thought to myself ‘Oh no, it’s happened again,’ and for a while my mental state wasn’t very good.

"It was talking to (England coach) Hope Powell and a couple of close friends that brought me round and now I’m feeling far more positive.

"I’m still not match fit, but my general fitness levels are improving all the time and with lots of Arsenal and England matches coming up I should be fine for Euro 2005."

Smith’s arrival at Arsenal was in fact a return to the club where she began her career and made such phenomenal early progress that she made her England debut as a 16 year-old.

She subsequently spent eight years in America, playing soccer on the college circuit then professionally in the WUSA and W-Leagues, but she remained a big Arsenal fan.

So it was perhaps natural, on her return to England, that she should re-join the Gunners. She did, however, also talk to one other FA Nationwide Women’s Premier League club.

"I spoke to Birmingham City," Smith, now 26, confirms, "but after discussions with both clubs I felt the package at Arsenal was more convenient for me.

"I live only 20 minutes from the training ground and I’ve got a good relationship with (Arsenal manager) Vic Akers, and I feel comfortable with my decision.

"Another factor was the large number of games that Arsenal have got left this season, including UEFA Cup ties, and I want to be playing lots of matches before Euro 2005.

"My decision to come back to England was made mainly so that I could play as big a part as possible in the build-up to the tournament.

"I want to be involved in all the England training camps and friendly internationals leading up to the Euros, but also to help where I’m able to in promoting the event.

"It’s going to be the most exciting time ever for women’s football in this country and I want to do whatever I can to help make the tournament a success."

Click here for more information on Kelly's return to Arsenal from the club's website. For further information on Kelly herself you can visit her personal website here.