Smith best in the world - Akers

Smith has failed to match last season's 31-goal haul (Getty)

Arsenal Ladies manager Vic Akers claims striker Kelly Smith is the best player in the world after the Gunners retained the Premier League title on Thursday.

Smith, 29, scored her 10th goal of the season as Arsenal beat Chelsea 4-1 to make it five titles in a row.

And Akers told BBC London 94.9: "I think we've seen one of the top players in world football tonight, let alone in club football.

"Kelly Smith has been fantastic for us, and we've seen how she stands out."

But Akers was quick to play down his own success, as they bid to clinch the double in the FA Women's Cup final on 5 May.

"It really is a fantastic achievement, but it's not about managers or coaches - it's about players. And we've got great players at this football club."