Powell: New faces can make the difference

Hope Powell believes her summer signings can hit the ground running when Albion kick off their Barclays FA Women's Super League campaign at the Amex on Sunday.

Albion brought in striker Danielle Carter, wide player Rinsola Babajide and goalkeeper Fran Stenson during the summer as well as Guemmin Lee, who signed on a permanent basis after spending last season on loan.

“Our priority as always when we sign players is will they add value to the squad, and I definitely feel all of our new players do that for us,” said Powell.

“They have all settled in really well. Lee got better the longer the season went on and finished strongly. Danielle is so experienced and has scored goals at this level and Rinsola is back in the WSL after doing really well in the Championship for Liverpool, and she has a lot to offer. Fran has come in from Arsenal and will put Meg [Walsh] under pressure in goal.

“The window closed on Thursday and you’re always looking for better players. We’ll reassess before the January window opens and see if we need to strengthen.”

As well as the new players, Albion have kept the core of the squad which finished sixth last season, the club’s best position in the WSL. “You are always looking to create the best environment but it’s cyclical. Every season players will want to stay or move on, it’s part of squad development. But it’s great that so many players have committed themselves to the club. Maya Le Tissier for instance was fantastic last season and hopefully she can reproduce that form.”

Albion kick off against West Ham United, whom they beat 1-0 in both games last season.

“They have really strengthened in the summer and it’s always a hard game against West Ham. Sunday will be no different. We will have to match their intensity but hopefully in front of a good crowd at the Amex the players will be inspired.”

Tickets for Sunday’s game cost just £5 for adults and £2.50 for under-18s while a family ticket is £10. To buy yours click here.