Sam kerr
Liverpool FC Women are gearing up for their much-anticipated return to action in the Barclays Women’s Super League (WSL) as they face Brighton & Hove Albion on Friday night. The game, set to kick off at 7 PM GMT at St Helens Stadium, marks the beginning of the Reds’ 2025 league campaign following the winter break. While there’s excitement over potential debuts for Sam Kerr and Julia Bartel, manager Matt Beard has confirmed that key players Niamh Fahey, Jasmine Matthews, and Sophie Roman Haug will miss the clash due to injuries.
New Faces Ready to Shine
Sam Kerr and Julia Bartel, recent loan signings from Bayern Munich and Chelsea respectively, have bolstered Liverpool’s midfield options. Kerr, who has impressed in training, is expected to feature prominently against Brighton. Beard expressed his confidence in her readiness, stating, “Sam is ready to go.”
However, Bartel’s integration into the team will be more gradual. The young Spanish midfielder has had limited game time in the first half of the season, including brief appearances for Chelsea and Spain’s U23s. Beard explained, “Julia hasn’t played many minutes. She had the U20 World Cup and another game for Spain’s U23s where she played 45 minutes, but otherwise, it’s been limited. She’ll be in the squad for sure, but we need to work on her football fitness.”
The duo’s arrival is a significant boost for Liverpool, adding depth and quality to the midfield. Fans will be eager to see how the pair adapt to the team’s playing style and contribute to their second-half campaign.
Injury Woes Continue
Despite the excitement surrounding the new signings, Liverpool will have to navigate their opening fixture without three important players. Sophie Roman Haug, Niamh Fahey, and Jasmine Matthews remain sidelined, adding to the team’s injury concerns.
Haug, who has been out since October with foot and ankle issues, experienced a minor setback during her rehabilitation. Beard provided an update, saying, “Sophie had a little bit of a setback last week with her quad due to the increased intensity of training. It hasn’t stopped her training entirely, but it has delayed her return by a week. We’re hopeful she’ll be back in training next week and available for selection against Leicester.”
Niamh Fahey, a key figure in Liverpool’s defense, is recovering from a knee injury that will keep her out for approximately six weeks. Jasmine Matthews is also unavailable, though further details about her injury have not been disclosed.
Building Momentum After the Winter Break
Liverpool’s clash with Brighton will be their first match since the winter break, as last weekend’s Adobe Women’s FA Cup tie against West Ham United was postponed. The break has provided an opportunity for Beard and his team to reset, reflect, and prepare for the challenges ahead.
Speaking at Thursday’s pre-match press conference, Beard highlighted the positive atmosphere within the squad. “Everything has been great since we’ve been back in,” he said. “We’ve had some good meetings and set ourselves some targets for the second half of the season. The players are chomping at the bit.”
One notable development is the increase in squad depth, with Beard reporting that 20 or 21 outfield players have been available for training—a rarity this season due to injuries. “This is the first time all year that I’ve had so many players available for training, even with Jas, Sophie, and Niamh out,” Beard noted. “It creates competition and raises standards in training.”
The manager also emphasized the importance of competition within the squad, explaining that a larger pool of players allows for higher intensity in training sessions. “When the squad is depleted, you tend to mollycoddle players because you can’t afford more injuries. But now, we’re in a good place, and we’re looking forward to the second half of the season.”
LFC Women Training
Key Matchup Against Brighton
Friday’s fixture against Brighton represents an important opportunity for Liverpool to start the year on a positive note. The Seagulls, managed by Melissa Phillips, have shown resilience and tactical discipline this season, making them a challenging opponent.
Liverpool will need to balance their attacking ambitions with defensive solidity, particularly in the absence of experienced players like Fahey and Matthews. Kerr and Bartel’s involvement could be pivotal, offering fresh energy and creativity in midfield.
Beard’s tactical approach will also be under scrutiny as he seeks to integrate the new signings while managing the team’s injury challenges. The manager’s experience and ability to adapt will be crucial in ensuring Liverpool maintain their momentum and achieve their goals for the season.
A Season of High Expectations
As Liverpool embark on the second half of the WSL campaign, expectations are high. The team’s performances in the first half of the season have laid a solid foundation, but there is still work to be done to secure a strong league finish.
Beard’s focus on building a competitive and cohesive squad has been evident in his transfer dealings and approach to training. The addition of Kerr and Bartel reflects the club’s ambition to compete at the highest level, while the return of injured players like Haug, Fahey, and Matthews will further strengthen the team in the coming weeks.
Liverpool’s fans will be hoping for a strong start to 2025, with the Brighton match serving as a litmus test for the team’s readiness and resilience. The winter break has provided a chance to regroup, and now it’s time for the Reds to translate their preparations into results on the pitch.
Looking Ahead
After Friday’s game, Liverpool will turn their attention to their next fixture against Leicester City. The potential return of Sophie Roman Haug for that match will be a welcome boost, adding firepower to the team’s attack.
As the WSL season progresses, Liverpool will face a series of tough challenges, including matches against top-tier opponents. Maintaining consistency and managing player fitness will be key to achieving their objectives.
With a blend of experienced players, promising new signings, and a determined coaching staff, Liverpool FC Women are well-positioned to make a strong push in the second half of the season. Fans can look forward to an exciting and competitive campaign as the Reds aim to leave their mark on the WSL.
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YNWA (You’ll Never Walk Alone)!
The Liverpool FC Times Team
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