Programme notesNiamh Fahey: It's a big push now for Christmas and everyone's excited

Matt Beard's squad return to action following the recent round of international fixtures and face three games in a week before a hiatus until January.

The Reds first host Bristol City this afternoon (2pm GMT) at Prenton Park in the Barclays Women's Super League, ahead of a Continental League Cup clash at Everton in midweek, and then a trip to face Manchester United in the league on December 17 to close out the year.

Writing in her matchday programme notes this weekend, Fahey says: "Our last game here against Brighton & Hove Albion was almost a perfect performance.

"We were really happy with the nature of it, there were some really great goals scored and we also kept a clean sheet, so it was a very good day for us but now we know that we must back that up in a busy week ahead.

"Coming into a week with three games is particularly demanding and especially tough on the girls who have been away with their countries as they don't get a break before getting straight back into club football. However, the main thing is that everyone comes back healthy and injury-free.

"It's going to be a busy period but it's a big push now for Christmas. We have a week to go and I know everyone's excited coming up to the games that we have left this year with Everton and Man United to play as well. So it's one big push now before Christmas and hopefully we can get maximum points from our three remaining games of the year.

"The first of those is against Bristol City today and while they've struggled for a few points so far this season, they've been there or thereabouts in a lot of games.

"They're a tough outfit. I've watched a few of their games and they're not easy to break down. No game is easy in this league and we're going to be asked to be at it and at the top of our game if we want to come away with the three points.

"The Bristol City squad includes plenty of familiar faces to us. Unfortunately I think Furney [Rachel Furness] is injured so she probably won't be playing but I'm sure the other ex-Reds will be aiming to do well on their return to Prenton Park.

"On a personal note, it's been great to be back involved with the girls in the last couple of games, giving a help out whenever I can. I was delighted to be back on the pitch and just being back in amongst it again has been a great feeling.

"Today is our final home game of 2023 and I want to thank our unbelievable supporters. You can never get tired of saying how great our fans are because they've had our back in every situation as long as I've been at the club. Through thick and thin, they've been there and they continue to show up all the time and get behind the team. We hear them all the time with the songs and it really gives us such a lift.

"I can't thank them enough for their support in the first half of the season and hopefully we can put on a good performance today and leave the fans happy at home, although I'm sure they'll be there at Everton and Man United too!

"Finally, on behalf of all the players, I'd like to wish you all a very happy and healthy Christmas."

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