Lily Wishart is not going to give up her place in the Belles team without a fight after impressing in her first start of the season on Sunday.
Manager Andy Butler praised the left-back after she came back into the side to face Long Eaton United, making an instant impression by delivering the cross for Hannah McWilliams’ opening goal after just five minutes.
She said: “It was really nice to be back, all the girls have worked hard throughout pre-season and there’s real competition for places. Everyone works hard and you play for your shirt every week, you’re not guaranteed it.
“I did have nerves, but crossing for the goal settled me down. Last season I played left-wing and Andy has changed my position this season. It was a little difficult at times in pre-season trying to learn the new position, playing a bit more defensive, but I’m learning every day.”
The Belles head to Redditch United on Sunday to open their FA Women’s Cup campaign for the season.
Wishart added: “We’ve got a week of training and a game on Sunday. It’s about working hard in training and in the gym to make sure I’m ready.
“We’re focused on the league but we’ll try to get the win after working hard in training. The atmosphere in the club is really good and positive, it’s good to be scoring goals and winning matches.”