Chelsea Ladies boss challenges players

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Chelsea Ladies manager Emma Hayes has challenged her players to prove they deserve a regular place when they face London Bees in this weekend’s Continental Cup clash.

The Blues should have little trouble dispatching the Women’s Super League 2 side at Staines Town’s Wheatsheaf Park ground on Saturday.

But two defeats against Arsenal this season, plus a loss against leaders Birmingham, have given Hayes food for thought ahead of her team’s upcoming return to WSL action.

“We know we should beat London Bees although it will be tough and we will need to earn the win,” said Hayes, whose side are top of Group One in the Continental Cup.

“But having lost last time out at Arsenal this is a chance for my players to show they deserve to be in the starting XI, not just this weekend but in the big games to come against Arsenal once again and Manchester City when we return to the FA WSL.”

She added: “Of course we are expected to win, but I will be watching closely as I expect a reaction from my players following the 3-0 loss at Arsenal last time out.

“We play Arsenal twice more before the end of the season, having lost in both cup games we’ve played, and my players need to show me they can find a way to win these big games as until now we haven’t shown we can.

“We have underperformed in big games and the players need to remember they are only playing against another shirt – the name of the team is irrelevant. We have shown too much respect and it needs to change.

“I have challenged the group to prove themselves and expect a positive reaction against London Bees.’

Chelsea Ladies v London Bees kicks off at 2pm at Wheatsheaf Park, Staines. Tickets are available on the door priced £3 for children and £5 for adults, or via www.chelseafc.com

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