Aston Villa Women return in action in the FA Women’s Cup for their clash against West Ham United at the Chigwell Construction Stadium.
Following the international break, the Midlands team have had a jammed packed month and have currently played back-to-back games with Brighton, however all focus shifts from the WSL to the FA Cup.
The two sides secured their place in the Fifth of the cup, where Carla Ward’s side walked away with a massive 11-0 win against AFC Flyde, and West Ham United won 2-0 against Wolverhampton.
Speaking to Aston Villa Media Team, Ward praised new signing Jordan Nobbs as she was awarded WSL Player Of the Month after an incredible start to the club.
“Nobbs has been brilliant. She is an experienced winner. She’s been there and done it all. She’s been brilliant for the players and for the staff and performing on the pitch as well. For us it has been a positive signing and will see her on Sunday.”
Meanwhile, star player Rachel Daly travelled with the England squad last week and has only made her return this morning and looks to get straight back in ready and prepared boss Ward praises.
“Rachel Daly scores goals, she needs to play the nine it’s as simple as that. I have said it before she kicked the ball in the WSL. You start her in the nine for England, she scores goals, she gets player of the match, she does what a goal scorer does, and we are delighted.
Villa Women have never won the competition, but 2022/23 marks arguably their best shot at doing so given that the strength of their squad is regarded as the best in their history.
Ward has admitted that from experience and club history, the FA Cup is one to win and is one to win by this newly inform Villa Women team.
“It’s the FA Cup, biggest, the best cup in the world in my opinion, always has been growing up watching it, playing in it and now managing it. We want to win the football match we want to go as far as possible.”
“Of course, we got the league, but the league is on hold this weekend and all eyes are on the FA Cup. We want to get into the quarter finals, and anything can happen.
London opponents West Ham United have also made a strong start to the season however suffered a huge loss in the WSL semi-final against London Derby side Chelsea 7-0 last week.
Boss Ward has spoken highly towards The Hammers, highlighting the depth of the squad.
“They would want to get a reaction after their tough loss and its never good to play against a team who has been defeated this way, but West ham are a good side and have had good battles against them. It will be a good but a tough game.
Freya Gregory and Evie Rabjohn are back in the squad after they both suffered serious injuries and are set to make their appearance on Sunday afternoon.
