Emma Hayes is determined that Chelsea will regain their advantage and not lose focus as the new season of the Women’s Super League kicks off with more visibility than ever.
The WSL’s three-year televised deal with Sky and the BBC will see matches broadcast every weekend.
In addition to helping bring a much-needed additional income stream in the wake of 18 months of testing in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, that extra focus will bring with it a new level of scrutiny.
Hayes has been with Chelsea since 2012. Last season he led the Blues to another WSL title, two points ahead of Manchester City, as well as the Champions League final, where they were defeated by Barcelona in Gothenburg.
Sunday 5th September at 11:30 am
Kick-off 12:30
Having achieved so many successes during her tenure – which also includes two FA Cup triumphs – Hayes has no plans to let the extra attention distract her from the work in progress as Chelsea prepare for Sunday’s WSL opening at ‘Arsenal.
“This is what a lot of us in the women’s game have worked for,” Hayes said.
“I am so happy that we are able to build on the last two seasons and now really show our talent on even more platforms.”
Hayes, who signed a new contract with Chelsea in July, added: “This is no different than any other season, there is no difference in terms of what we do this year, we will just try to find our advantage.
“I know the teams have improved off the pitch, like every year.
The strike partnership of Fran Kirby and Sam Kerr led Chelsea to their fourth WSL title
“Some teams have invested more in their playing teams than others, but you have to remind people that we lost to Brighton last year in the league, so you can’t just talk about these top four or five clubs.
“The league as a whole has improved and every single match will be tough.”
Norway captain Maren Mjelde and striker Lauren James, a summer signing from Manchester United, are both injured for Sunday’s match at Emirates Stadium.
Hayes said: “Arsenal have played Champions League competitions in recent weeks, so they are already quite played as a team and I’m sure they will appreciate the opportunity to play in front of their fans.
“But I’m not looking for excuses, my team will be ready”.
Hayes added: “We have a fantastic group of players and we will all have to raise the bar if Chelsea are to achieve the same level of success.”
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