Merricks: Let's look forward

Assistant manager Amy Merricks says Albion have to look forward rather than back as they prepare to take on champions Chelsea at the People’s Pension Stadium on Sunday.

Albion haven’t won or scored a goal in their last six league and cup games but Merricks, who will be in charge of the team after Hope Powell tested positive for Covid, says the players have to focus on the next challenge.

“There have been good parts to take from the last few games and we need to build on those,” said Merricks.

“It means being braver and bolder on the ball in certain moments, being cuter with our final pass and retaining possession better so we can progress up the pitch.

“All the time we have to stick to our fundamentals which is being hard to beat while working on other things that make us better.”

Merricks believes Powell’s absence will not be a distraction against the league leaders.

“I am on the training pitch with Hope every day, we do the same preparation and deliver the same message about style of play. I’ll have my backroom staff with me and obviously Hope will be on the earpiece following the game from home.”

Albion enjoyed their best result in the WSL a year ago when they beat Chelsea 2-1 away having only picked up one point out of 18 in their previous six games.

“There are obviously parallels with last season in terms of our results going into the Chelsea game, but we are in a better place I feel as a club and squad depth,” added Merricks.

“But I have to say the mood this week among the players has been extremely positive. They recognise the areas where we need to improve but they are looking forward to Sunday.”