Arsenal manager Renee Slegers has praised Olivia Smith's adaptability after the 21-year-old striker's successful transition to a central role. Smith scored the winning goal against Manchester City and netted again in the Champions League victory over OH Leuven, stepping in effectively for injured striker Stina Blackstenius.

Slegers highlighted Smith's versatility as a major squad strength, noting her ability to combine with teammates in central spaces. The England international demonstrated her pace and positional awareness with a poacher's finish against Manchester City, then showed tactical intelligence in the 4-0 Champions League win. With Blackstenius sidelined with a calf injury and Beth Mead unavailable due to a shin fracture, Smith is expected to continue in the central role.

Arsenal head to Brighton this weekend aiming for their third consecutive WSL victory. The Seagulls, despite recent poor form with four defeats in five games, defeated Arsenal 4-2 at Broadfield Stadium last season. Slegers acknowledged Brighton's quality and warned against complacency, noting her team has grown significantly since their last encounter. Arsenal's unbeaten league run since October provides confidence heading into the south coast clash.