Julia Simic is delighted to be back in the starting eleven and playing such an important role after an all-star performance against Liverpool.
The German was excellent during her 73 minutes on the pitch versus the Reds at the weekend, providing a brilliant assist for Adriana Leon’s first goal and influencing the entire match from midfield.
Sunday’s efforts mark Simic’s seventh appearance in all competitions this season, continuing her run since returning to action in December, and the No10 is thrilled to be enjoying an essential role in Matt Beard’s side.
I’m just happy to get assists and help in any way I can. If I can help the others score, then I’m really happy.
Julia Simic
“For me, it’s just nice to be back in the team and play important matches like this one,” Simic told whufc.com. “With 70 minutes in this game, it is my most in a match so far this season. I’m just so happy with the win, and to be back playing.
“I’m really feeling like I’m getting fitter. I felt like I was out for a long time, so I needed three, four, five weeks – whole training weeks – in my legs to get back to match fitness. I think now I’m slowly getting there. It’s working for me.
“I’m just happy to get assists and help in any way I can. If I can help the others score, then I’m really happy.”
The 4-2 victory over Liverpool – secured thanks to two goals from Leon and a brace by Martha Thomas – ended a run of three consecutive defeats for the Hammers, and Simic believes there has been a real shift in mentality for the side during training.
With the Irons without a game now until the away clash with Manchester United on Sunday 22 March, Simic says the side must continue to show the same mentality in training over the coming weeks.
She added: “Everyone who was with us in the week could feel that something was different. The week was so competitive. We all wanted to play and get the win so badly, so we were smashing into each other in training. It was really good.
“We had a really good training week and we were happy to bring that onto the pitch on Sunday. It was great to end a hard-working week with a win.
“It was such an important win before the international break. It helps us to restore that positive mindset and gives us self-belief.”
