Nobbs - What Kelly brought to teams

While some captains are vocal on and off the pitch, others prefer stay quiet and lead by example. Kelly Smith fell into the latter category.

The former England striker had been Arsenal Ladies’ club captain for the past few seasons, inspiring her team-mates to back-to-back Continental Cups and last May’s FA Cup triumph at Wembley before announcing her retirement on Wednesday.

Jordan Nobbs played with Smith for club and country, and says nobody else had the ability to impact a game like the Arsenal legend could.

“What Kelly brings to a team is inspirational,” Nobbs said. “She can be silent on the pitch but still inspire and drive a team. That is a very unique skill to have.

“Whenever I have…