Gunning-Williams is feeling the energy ahead of north London derby at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium

It has already been a season to remember for Lenna Gunning-Williams but the prospect of featuring in this weekend’s home north London derby is filling her with excitement.

Having spent last season on loan at Ipswich Town, the young forward has certainly stamped her place in Robert Vilahamn’s plans so far this campaign, featuring in five of our opening eight games in all competitions.

Those included her first competitive start for the Club in the Women’s League Cup victory over Charlton Athletic last month, while making four appearances from the bench in the Barclays Women’s Super League.

Next up in the WSL is none other than city rivals Arsenal on Saturday at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium (1.45pm UK) and, in the build-up to the derby, Lenna was given the opportunity to visit our world-class stadium and that has only increased the excitement for her first involvement in this iconic fixture.

“I’m so excited for it [the north London derby],” she told us. “I was buzzing about the prospect of being involved in recent weeks leading up to the game but having the opportunity to look around the stadium, including visiting the Club Shop, has given me that extra piece of energy and established just how big of a fixture it is.”

When discussing about being at the Stadium and the impact of supporters, she added: “I love it, I was at the old stadium and was part of the crowd for the last game there to seeing how massive it is now… it’s a gorgeous stadium and I’m excited to be around here.

“It makes a massive difference because not only are you playing for yourself and the team, but also for the fans and it has been amazing to see the support I have received so I’m also looking forward to the aspect of interacting with the supporters as well.”

Her positive start to the campaign in Lilywhite also saw her rewarded with a maiden call-up for the England Under-23s squad last month, where she made her debut for the Young Lionesses in the 1-0 win over Portugal as she came on as a second half substitute for Emma Coates’ side.

“I don’t think I really had the opportunity to reflect on everything just yet,” she added, when asked about her start to the season. “I think I’m just taking every opportunity as they come and, hopefully, I can continue a positive start to the season by being part of the north London derby this weekend.”