Absence of fans has hit us hard, says Gibbons

Fliss Gibbons is delighted that fans are able to watch WSL games again, admitting that their absence in the early weeks of the season has 'hit the players quite hard.'

Albion's game at The Hive against Tottenham Hotspur tomorrow will be the first since February which has been played in front of spectators and Gibbons can't wait.

“It's really exciting. Although it's only going to be their fans tomorrow it is brilliant that they are coming back.

“Not having any fans has obviously been really different and has actually hit us quite hard, especially not having friends and family there to support us.

“Hopefully we'll have them back at our home games at Crawley very soon as well. In the last couple of years we've built a really loyal fanbase there which was growing in numbers last season before everything stopped. We have definitely noticed their absence.”

Spurs are yet to win a game this season but will be under new management following the appointment of former England and Arsenal assistant coach Rehanne Skinner. Albion go into the game in eighth place following their 1-0 win over West Ham United three weeks ago.

“Having fans there might change the dynamic on Sunday but we've all played long enough to block that out and worry about the occasion,” said Gibbons.

“Once the game gets underway it will be business as usual, we'll just focus on the football. We know they have a new manager so their players will want to impress her, so it will be a tough game, but they all are in this league.

“If we play to our capabilities we can be a match for anyone and we're looking forward to being back out on the pitch.”