Becky Spencer: “It’s nice to have a manager that believes in me” | Matchday programme exclusive

Becky Spencer has been reflecting on the changing role of a goalkeeper and the impact that Robert Vilahamn’s has made on her ahead of our clash with Leicester City in Sunday afternoon (2pm UK).

The Jamaica international has enjoyed an extensive career to date, winning the Women’s FA Cup three times, playing over 100 times in the Barclays Women’s Super League.

So, it’s fair to say that the 33-year-old has seen the evolution of the goalkeeping role over the year, being more composed on the ball and being able to start moves from the back.

Speaking in an exclusive interview in the matchday programme for the visit of the Foxes, Becky explains: “I have always been a goalkeeper that likes playing with my feet, so the evolution of our role in the game has kind of come naturally to me, however, it’s difficult as you are sort of doing two jobs at once and you have quite a lot of decision-making in that process.

“It’s a tough job, and I don’t think people realise how much concentration it takes and the quality you need on the ball, effectively you have to be an outfield player in goal.

“It has been good with Robert [Vilahamn] as he allows me to have a lot of freedom and trust with what I do on the ball. So, it’s nice to have a manager that believes in what you do and realises that nine times out of 10 you are trying to do the right thing but, if you don’t, he is still supporting what you have tried to do.”

Sunday’s matchday programme against Leicester City will be on sale at the game and this season’s Spurs Women’s issues will also be available to buy online...