Chapman hails Chelsea Ladies signings

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Chelsea Ladies captain Katie Chapman says the five new close-season signings have settled instantly and believes the team are already showing signs of improvement from last season.

Gemma Davison scored twice in the 2-1 opening-day Women’s Super League win over Notts County on Sunday, and fellow new recruits Hedvig Lindahl, Niamh Fahey, Millie Bright all impressed.

The other new face, striker Marija Banusic, netted a hat-trick in the FA Cup victory over Watford in the first fixture of the season.

“They have all already fitted in really well,” Chapman told West London Sport.

“It’s been great having them in and it feels like they have been here for a long, long time. They are all great assets to our team.

“We have strengthened in defence with some tougher players and we are a more of a threat going forward.

Chapman came up against Notts' former Chelsea player Rachel Williams
Chapman came up against Notts’ former Chelsea player Rachel Williams

“We are a good footballing team, we like to keep the ball but we can also counter-attack and that will be a massive part of our game too.”

Chapman, who excelled in central midfield against the Lady Pies, echoed manager Emma Hayes’s view that the victory proved they will be a grittier side this term.

“Last season we weren’t great away from home so to get a win like that is brilliant,” Chapman added.

Davison's opening goal put Chelsea in command
Davison’s opening goal for the visitors put Chelsea in command

“They are a hard team to break down. We were resilient, kept to our gameplan and it paid off.

“It’s always a physical game against Notts County, but we always felt if we played our football we would get a result.

“Everyone wants to win that first game as it brings so much confidence.”

Chelsea Ladies versus Liverpool in the FA Women’s Super League takes place on Sunday 19 April at Wheatsheaf Park, Staines Town FC. Kick-off is at 2pm and tickets are currently available priced at £5 for adults and £3 for juniors/seniors.

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