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Stoney - Rose a pleasure to play with

Casey Stoney says it has been a “pleasure” to play alongside Jemma Rose for the past 10 months.

Rose joined Arsenal Ladies from Bristol Academy last December and formed an immediate partnership with the England international at centre back, helping the Gunners keep 10 clean sheets this season.

Stoney admitted it took a bit of time to adjust to her new defensive partner but believes we are now seeing the best of the pair.

"She’s a pleasure to play with, she’s a great defender, is quick and reads the game well, and hopefully we can keep this partnership going for a few more years to come"

Casey Stoney

“Initially you have to get to know each other because even though you both play centre back, you could play in very different ways,” she told Arsenal Player.

“Jemma’s a fantastic defender and she’s gone from strength to strength this season, playing some of the best football I’ve seen her play in the last four or five games. She’s a pleasure to play with, she’s a great defender, is quick and reads the game well, and hopefully we can keep this partnership going for a few more years to come.

“We definitely complement each other. I’m not the quickest in the world, she’s got a bit of pace, I read the game and try to help her through and she helps me as well. We just make a really good partnership and I think that’s starting to show now.

“For us, keeping back-to-back clean sheets was massive and something we need to pride ourselves on. I’ve really enjoyed playing with her this season. Next season will be a really strong partnership.”

Rose is the captain of England Under-23s and Stoney believes her team-mate has what it takes to make the step up to the senior side.

“I think she’s more than ready,” the defender said. “I was actually disappointed she wasn’t in the last England squad because she’s been playing so well for us. She is a player who is capable of making that step up and making a name for herself in the England team.”

Arsenal Ladies face Notts County in the Continental Cup final on Sunday, November 1. For information on tickets and coach travel to the match, click here.

Casey Stoney

Casey Stoney

 

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