Nikita Runnacles & Amy Rodgers full of praise for 'true professional' Katie Kitching

Katie Kitching, London City Lionesses

London City Lionesses interim head coach Nikita Runnacles hailed the impact of Katie Kitching after she produced a substitute performance to remember versus Blackburn Rovers.

The 24-year-old, who joined London City from the University of South Florida in January 2022, replaced Shanade Hopcroft at the break and was impactful throughout the second-half.

“Katie Kitching is probably one of the most unselfish players I’ve met in football,” said Runnacles.

“She works hard for the team, does what she needs to do, and is the biggest fan of her teammates. She absolutely deserved more minutes today and has probably deserved more minutes over the course of the season in fairness.”

Kitching produced an effective performance on both sides of the ball against Blackburn Rovers, dominating her defensive duels, posing a threat with late runs into the final third, and testing Shanell Solgado from distance.

The Northallerton-born midfielder also drew praise from her vice-captain.

“It was great,” Amy Rodgers said of sharing central midfield duties with Kitching. “We all love Katie – she’s a true professional. She hasn’t had the most minutes this season, but she works hard every day and is one of the best players in training most days. It’s a true credit to her.

“Katie played so well on today and we’re all so proud of her.”