Preview: Tottenham and Manchester City square off in matchweek 19

Alanna Kennedy (right) leads Tottenham Hotspur teammates onto the pitch.
Alanna Kennedy (right) leads Tottenham Hotspur teammates onto the pitch. (Photo by Andy Rowland)

Manchester City will be looking for a comeback following their Champions League exit. Meanwhile, their hosts Tottenham will be looking to end their seven-game losing streak.

A win for Gareth Taylor’s Manchester side would see them leapfrog Chelsea. Though, this also depends on the result between the current league leaders and Birmingham.

The Sky Blues have not dropped a point in the league since the 2-2 Manchester derby in November. Tottenham are without a win since January when they beat West ham 1-0.

With the season rapidly dwindling both teams will be eager to claim every possible point. With Manchester City no longer competing for the Champion’s league all their focus will doubtless be on the WSL title. Tottenham meanwhile will be aiming to finish in the top half of the table with only a handful of games remaining.

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Team news

Tottenham have not announced any fresh injuries since their derby defeat to Arsenal. Manchester City, meanwhile, are expected to be missing Lauren Hemp and Laura Coombs after it was announced both players are suffering with an ear infection. Coombs was seen receiving treatment on the pitch following Wednesday’s game. City are still missing skipper Steph Houghton and defender Demi Stokes, with the pair expected to return after the international break.

One to watch

Lucy Bronze was exceptional for City in the second leg against Barcelona. The No.20 was pivotal in putting two past the Spanish giants.

Bronze returned to Manchester following her spell with Champions League holders Lyon. Speaking about Bronze following their Champions League exit, Gareth Taylor didn’t downplay Bronze’s importance to the team. With her experience both domestically and in Europe, the defender is a key asset to the squad both on and off the pitch.

Tottenham are without a win in their last five league games. Because Manchester City have not dropped a point during that same span of time, it would be easier to assume the visitors are the clear favourites. The WSL however has provided several shocks this season. With City’s midweek disappointment, it will be key for Taylor’s side to put the defeat behind them as they chase the WSL title.

The match will be shown on The FA Player and will kick off at 14:00 BST.

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