Kelly Smith, born on 29th October 1978, is one of the most iconic and talented footballers to ever grace the game. A pioneer for women’s football in England, Smith’s career has spanned continents and set records that still stand today. Her achievements on the pitch are legendary, and her influence has paved the way for future generations of female footballers.
In this article, we will dive into the lesser-known facts about Kelly Smith, from her early struggles and rise to fame, to her injuries and personal life. Let’s explore the surprising elements of her journey that many fans might not know!
Contents
Key Facts & Information
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | Estimated at $1 million to $3 million (from her playing career, endorsements, and media roles). |
| Girlfriend/Boyfriend | In a past romantic relationship with fellow footballer Alex Scott, as revealed in Scott’s autobiography. |
| Physical Stats | Height: 1.65 meters (5’5″). Weight: 60 kg (132 lbs). |
| Parents | Father: Unknown, and Mother: Unknown, both played an influential role in supporting her career. |
| Sibling | Kelly has a sister, but further details are not widely publicized. |
| Achievements | England’s second-highest goal scorer, 117 caps for England, 46 international goals, a key figure in the 2007 UEFA Women’s Cup win. |
| Awards | FA Women’s Player of the Year (2006, 2007), WPS All-Star, multiple individual honors including 3rd in 2009 FIFA Women’s World Player of the Year. |
| Injuries | Faced multiple serious injuries, including ACL tears, a stress fracture, and a broken leg during her career. |
| Tattoos | No known tattoos, though she has frequently spoken about her personal experiences and growth throughout her career. |
| Position | Forward |
| Playing Style | Renowned for her speed, ball control, quickness, and her ability to score from almost any position on the field. |
| Trophies | 3 FA Women’s Premier League titles, UEFA Women’s Cup 2007, FA Women’s Cup winner, WPS titles, and other club championships. |
| Goals | 46 goals for England, 100+ goals for club sides, with a reputation as one of the best finishers in women’s football history. |
| Match Experience | 117 caps for England, multiple international tournaments including the Women’s World Cup, UEFA Women’s Championship, and the London 2012 Olympics. |
| Dominant Foot | Right footed |
| Heading Ability | Strong in the air despite being considered shorter than many of her counterparts. |
| Scoring Ability | One of England’s best-ever finishers, Smith had the ability to score from set-pieces, inside the box, and long-range strikes. |
| Pressure-Handling Skills | Excellent; demonstrated resilience through career-threatening injuries and pressure from international tournaments and high expectations. |
Early Life & Football Beginnings
Growing up in Garston, Watford, Smith was passionate about football from a young age. Her early talent in the boys’ teams led to her being a top scorer, though controversy led to her departure from Garston Boys Club. Undeterred, she joined Pinner Girls and quickly gained recognition for her talent.
Smith’s potential was spotted early, and by 1995, she was described as the “outstanding prospect” in women’s football by The Independent. She made her senior debut for Wembley Ladies at just 16 and later transferred to Arsenal Ladies, where she helped secure the 1996–97 Premier League title.
US Adventure & Arsenal Return
In 1997, Smith’s career took an international turn when she moved to Seton Hall University in the United States. There, she set multiple records and was named Big East Offensive Player of the Year for three consecutive seasons. Her exceptional performances led her to a professional career in the Women’s United Soccer Association (WUSA) with the Philadelphia Charge.
However, injuries continued to plague Smith’s career, including a torn ACL and a broken leg. Despite these setbacks, Smith returned to England in 2004 and rejoined Arsenal, leading the team to a remarkable season, including the 2007 UEFA Women’s Cup.
Setbacks & Comebacks
Despite facing numerous injuries, including a stress fracture and Achilles troubles, Smith’s resilience allowed her to make powerful comebacks. In 2007, she helped Arsenal secure a quadruple-winning season, scoring 30 goals in 34 games.
In 2009, after the closure of WUSA, she joined the Boston Breakers in the new Women’s Professional Soccer league. Though her time in America was marred by further injuries, Smith continued to perform at a high level, and her experience earned her a spot on the WPS All-Star Team.
England National Team & International Glory
Smith’s international career with England began in 1995, and she made an immediate impact. She scored her first goal just a few days after her debut, and over the years became one of England’s most prolific scorers, netting 46 goals. Her leadership and contributions were crucial in major tournaments like the UEFA Women’s Championship and the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Smith was part of the 2012 Team GB squad at the London Olympics and represented England with pride in several international competitions. She retired from international football in 2015, leaving behind a legacy as one of England’s greatest-ever players.
Personal Life and Beyond Football
Smith’s personal life has been marked by challenges and triumphs. She’s been open about her struggles with alcohol addiction, which she overcame with the help of treatment programs. She also shared a home with former teammate Alex Scott, revealing in Scott’s autobiography that they were once romantically involved.
After retiring from football, Smith’s journey transitioned into coaching. In 2023, she returned to Arsenal, this time as a coach with the Women’s academy, and later joined the first-team coaching staff.
Kelly Smith’s career is a testament to resilience, determination, and exceptional talent. Despite facing significant obstacles, including multiple career-threatening injuries, Smith’s commitment to the game never wavered. She has set a standard for excellence that continues to inspire young footballers worldwide. From her groundbreaking performances at Seton Hall to her international success with England, Kelly Smith will forever be remembered as one of the sport’s true legends.
FAQ
Q1: What is Kelly Smith’s greatest achievement in her football career?
Kelly Smith’s greatest achievement includes being England’s second-highest goal scorer with 46 goals and leading Arsenal to numerous titles, including the UEFA Women’s Cup in 2007.
Q2: How many goals did Kelly Smith score for England?
Smith scored 46 goals in 117 appearances for the England national team.
Q3: Did Kelly Smith win the FIFA Women’s World Player of the Year?
While Kelly Smith never won the award, she was ranked 3rd in the 2009 FIFA Women’s World Player of the Year ranking.
Q4: What were Kelly Smith’s major injuries?
Kelly Smith suffered multiple injuries, including ACL tears, a stress fracture in her foot, a broken leg, and an Achilles injury.
Q5: What is Kelly Smith doing now?
After retiring from playing, Kelly Smith transitioned into coaching and is currently working with the Arsenal Women’s first-team coaching staff.
