Barton: Composure in front of goal is key

Barton insists that not much needs to change in terms of their overall performances, but carrying a greater goal threat is crucial against United.

She said, “We know their [Man United’s] strengths but, for us, it’s about maintaining our level of performance and being more consistent, because at times that has been our downfall this season.

“I thought we were very unlucky in our last game against them [lost 2-1]. If we can focus on our own performance, and continue where we left off from our last game against Everton then we’ve got a very good chance of getting a result.

“Taking our chances has been one of our problems this season. We’ve been getting a lot better at that in training, and it’s about putting that into practice in games.

“When you don’t get many opportunities in a game and then you get one, you think to yourself, ‘I’ve got to score!’ If we can create more chances, then I think we’ll become more composed in front of goal.”

The Albion midfielder also praised Manchester United for the progress they have made this season, and is not surprised by their current position in the table.

“When they were in the Championship last season you could see what they were striving for and that they could make the step up to the WSL.

“From the beginning of the season it was clear to see that they could easily be a top-four team and they’ve proved that now.

“But we know how unpredictable this league can be, and we’re confident of getting a result against them.”

Hope Powell’s team head into the game looking to claim a third consecutive victory in all competitions, and Barton says morale is high among the squad after a hard-fought 1-0 win over Everton last time out.

“We should take a lot of confidence from the Everton game, especially with how we played defensively," said Barton. "We were very strong and if we remain as a unit against United then we have every chance of getting something from the game.”