The City captain believes she is in the ideal place to continue to develop as a player and person and admits the support she has received during her eight years at the Club was a decisive factor in agreeing to extend her deal.
Houghton, who has won seven trophies in her time at the Academy Stadium, considers herself fortunate to work in such an inclusive environment and remains as determined as ever to achieve more success in a sky-blue shirt.
“We’re a very together unit, whether that’s from the men’s side, women’s or academy,” she said ahead of City’s game against Aston Villa.
“I think that’s a big pull at this club, that everyone feels valued.
“I can’t say any more good words about this club and the environment. That’s why I love being here every day.
“I’m always first in and the last one out because I try and use as much as I possibly can to get better every day.
“I feel very lucky and I think it’s important you don’t take things for granted.
“From the moment I walked in the door, everyday I have learned something new, whether that is on or off the pitch.
“I feel as though I have developed over every season. I am not the type of person to stand still and stay at a certain level, I always want to push for more.
“I feel very lucky to be surrounded by people who want to push me but at the same time support me.
“No matter how old you are, you can always improve and that’s what I’ll look to do over the next couple of years.”
It’s been a week of celebration for Houghton, who returned from a four-month layoff due to an ankle injury as City beat Brighton and Hove Albion last weekend and made her first start since September in the 5-0 victory over Leicester City in midweek.
The 33-year-old admits it was a difficult period for her, but with her injury worries behind her she has plenty to look forward to, not least of all the prospect of EURO 2022, which will be held in England.
It could be an exciting few months for Houghton, but she says her initial focus is on getting back in the City side and recapturing her best form.
“There’s nothing worse than being injured,” she added.
“You want to be involved. As a captain, I have to contribute in other ways. It’s hard to read comments about you when you can’t influence things.
“Ultimately, my first focus was to get back training and playing in a City shirt.
“That’s my focus over the next few weeks, to continue getting more minutes, playing well and getting my form and confidence back after a few months out.
“Of course, it is an exciting time coming up with a home euros but in the back of my mind it’s just about playing for City and everything else will take care of itself.”
CITY V ARSENAL
Tickets for City’s first home league game of 2022 - a crunch FA WSL clash against Arsenal - are now on sale.
Don’t miss your chance to cheer on Gareth Taylor‘s side on Sunday 23 January. Kick-off 18:45 at the Academy Stadium.
