Rafferty like a new signing – Hayes

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Chelsea Ladies manager Emma Hayes says having England left-back Claire Rafferty fully fit after a full pre-season is as big a boost as any high-profile summer signing.

Rafferty, Chelsea’s longest serving player, has suffered three anterior cruciate ligament injuries during her career.

And although the 26-year-old played her part as Chelsea finished runners-up to Liverpool in last season’s Women’s Super League, the latest knee injury meant she did not have a full-pre season and did not return to first-team action until early May.

Hayes told West London Sport: “It’s like having another new signing.

“She is the best left-back in England and I am proud of the work she has done to get back to this level.

“Last season we had to manage her training and her games but the priority was to make sure she has a long career and not overdo things too soon.”

Chelsea begin their WSL campaign with an away game against Notts County at Meadow Lane on Sunday.

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