Manchester City’s Taylor Optimistic About Hemp’s Potential Return Against Chelsea

Manchester City manager Gareth Taylor indicated that Lauren Hemp has “a chance” of playing against Chelsea in the Women’s Super League clash between the league’s top two teams on Saturday, scheduled for a 17:30 GMT kick-off. Hemp was absent from Tuesday’s Champions League victory against Hammarby due to a knee issue, but Taylor expressed hope for her potential return this weekend. Taylor stated, “We are positive at the moment.” He added, “We will find out more tomorrow [Friday] if Lauren is able to train and participate.” He further explained, “We will take that decision with the medical staff and Lauren tomorrow.” This WSL season, Hemp has recorded five assists, surpassing all other players, and leads significantly in chances created with a total of 26. Taylor commented, “You want to see Hempo in these games.” He continued, “She is a top player for us and the quality goes without saying.” Additional key statements from Taylor’s news conference included: Addressing the absence of other key players during the midweek fixture, Taylor commended those who filled in, stating: “They stood up to the task and everyone is standing up to be counted.” Taylor remarked that “there is no denying these games [against Chelsea] are really important” and further stated that “we want to stay in contention” for the title. Regarding Chelsea’s outstanding game in hand, he observed that “the league table at the moment looks a little bit lopsided.” When asked about his primary goalkeeper for the Chelsea match, Taylor responded: “To put a label on who is my number one is a little bit unfair. It’s a strong position to be in for us to have two world-class goalkeepers.”