Manchester City host Arsenal Ladies on Sunday in the WSL 1 as they look to put distance between themselves and the Gunners who sit one place above them on goal difference only.
The last time these two sides met was in last year’s Continental Cup final which saw City win their very first piece of silverware after a disappointing domestic campaign. Nick Cushing’s City side already have their sights set on another trophy success this year, as they come into this weekend’s encounter off the back of a 3-1 victory over Birmingham City in the FA Cup quarter finals. Arsenal were knocked out of the same competition by City’s semi-final opponents Chelsea, but bounced back midweek with a comprehensive 2-0 victory over Bristol Academy.
City goalkeeper Karen Bardsley is still suspended following her altercation with Birmingham’s Freda Ayisi and is therefore unavailable for selection, whilst PFA Player of the Year nominee, Lucy Bronze, and England captain, Steph Houghton are continued doubts following long-term injuries.
After dropping the striker for the FA Cup tie against Chelsea, Pedro Martinez Losa is likely to keep Carla Humphrey in his starting XI after she scored in the Gunners win against Bristol on Wednesday. Arsenal defender Jemma Rose said ahead of the trip to Manchester: “They (Manchester City) have recruited quite a bit and they are expecting another big year, but we are confident we can get a result.
“I am sure there will be a big crowd so hopefully we can get the ball down and play some attractive football for all those watching.
“Plus, after losing the Continental Cup final last year, I am sure a few of the girls are looking to get one back over them.”
