Steph Houghton delivers WSL title verdict as standout performers named | OneFootball

Former England and Manchester City defender Steph Houghton has shared her views on this season’s Women’s Super League title race as she predicts it will be the most competitive yet.

Chelsea have won the last five league titles and are currently on course to make it six as they lead the charge at the top of the table with 10 games played. Houghton was part of the Manchester City team that pushed the London club all the way last term as the trophy was won on goal difference on the final day.

This time around, under new manager Sonia Bompastor, Chelsea are six points clear at the top of the standings as they approach the midway point, but City, Arsenal and Manchester United are all in contention to push on in the second half of the campaign.

Houghton retired from playing at the end of last season and is now often on the sidelines as a pundit. This week, she was named as one of the four 2024 inductees into the WSL’s Hall of Fame alongside former Arsenal teammates Alex Scott and Gilly Flaherty, as well as recently retired trailblazing referee Rebecca Welch.

Speaking at an event on Monday in which the four were formally recognised for their achievements both on and off the pitch, Houghton shared her views on this season’s title race and why it could be the best yet.

Chelsea are unbeaten under Sonia Bompastor / Justin Setterfield/GettyImages

“These next two months are really crucial in terms of the league title and Chelsea are top at the moment,” the former England star said. “But, you look at the likes of Manchester City and Arsenal [close behind].

“There’s going to be dropped points and that’s the beauty of this league as it’s so exciting. It’s nice to be on the other side and not feeling that pressure.

“I honestly think the second half of this season is going to 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 at West Ham, while Arsenal take on Crystal Palace.

Houghton believes there has been a number of standout performers in the WSL this season, including one of her former teammates who is currently sidelined with a knee injury.

“There’s been some good performers so far,” she concluded. “For Chelsea it’s Guro Reiten as she’s a player that’s been really consistent.

“She’s adding goals to her game and is providing assists. I feel as though Chelsea are proving to be hard to beat at this moment in time.

“There’s a lot that stand out. Alessia Russo for Arsenal is starting to hit a little bit of form as well. Before Hempo [Lauren Hemp’s] injury I think she was without a doubt the league’s standout player but there’s four or five months to go so there will be a few more names to add into that.”