Former England and Manchester City defender Steph Houghton has shared her views on the Women’s Super League title race this season as she expects it to be the toughest yet.
Chelsea have won the last five league titles and are currently on course for a sixth title as they sit top of the table with ten games played. Houghton was part of the Manchester City team that pushed the London club to the top last season when they won the trophy on goal difference on the final day.
This time, under new manager Sonia Bompastor, Chelsea are six points clear at the top of the table and approaching the halfway point, but City, Arsenal and Manchester United have every chance of progressing in the second half of the season.
Houghton retired from the game at the end of last season and is now often found on the sidelines as a pundit. This week she was inducted into the WSL Hall of Fame as one of four inductees for 2024, alongside former Arsenal teammates Alex Scott and Gilly Flaherty and recently retired pioneering referee Rebecca Welch.
At an event on Monday where the four were formally recognized for their achievements on and off the pitch, Houghton shared her views on this season’s title race and why it could be the best yet.
“The next two months are really crucial in terms of the league title and Chelsea are at the top at the moment,” said the former England star. “But look at players like Manchester City and Arsenal [close behind].
“There will be points and that’s the beauty of this league because it’s so exciting. It’s nice to be on the other side and not feel that pressure.
“I honestly think the second half of this season will be the most competitive yet.”
The WSL returns this weekend after the winter break with some blockbuster clashes including the Manchester derby. Chelsea will be in action away to West Ham while Arsenal face Crystal Palace.
Houghton believes there have been a number of standout players in the WSL this season, including one of her former teammates who is currently sidelined with a knee injury.
“There have been some good artists so far,” she concluded. “For Chelsea it is Guro Reiten because she is a player who has been really consistent.
“She is adding goals and assists to her game. I feel like Chelsea are hard to beat at the moment.
“There are a lot of things that stand out. Arsenal’s Alessia Russo is also slowly getting into form. Before Hanfo [Lauren Hemp’s] Injury-wise I think she was without a doubt the standout player in the league, but it’s still four or five months away so there will be a few more names added.”