Leah Williamson: Arsenal defense “in good position” after “strong” criticism

It’s not just Williamson and his team-mates who have come under fire this season, with former boss Eidevall coming under fire before his departure.

‘JONAS OUT’ was painted on a brick wall outside the Emirates Stadium before the Gunners’ 2-1 defeat to Chelsea and Eidevall’s final game in charge.

The 41-year-old stepped down after three years at the helm and left with just one win in his first four WSL games.

“It’s hard. We’re all human beings and those fans don’t know the person he is,” Williamson said.

“It’s sad when you see someone being attacked and you know they’re a great person. But we know what it’s like and it’s been the same in men’s football for many years. It’s relentless and we all know it when we sign.” “It’s not that I do it well, but it’s part and parcel of the game.”

Williamson and Arsenal appeared to have turned a corner under interim manager Renee Slegers.

The Gunners appear to have made the transition seamlessly under the Dutchwoman’s management, winning four and drawing one of her five games in charge.

“I’m trying to figure it out myself,” Williamson said. “We are probably under the most pressure because we haven’t started the way we needed to, so every game is a game we have to win. However, it feels very calm.

“Renee knows all of us. She’s connected with everyone individually. We got a little stuck with low trust and she’s just gotten it back and wants the best from every player. It’s working.

“Ultimately, we come out every week to be better than the week before. We are doing very well and everything is looking rosy at the moment. We have had great results and we are working very hard.”

Arsenal will play Tottenham in the north London derby on Saturday at 13:45 GMT, a match live on BBC One and BBC Radio 5 Live.