Aston Villa Women could face a strengthened Manchester City side on Sunday after Andrée Jeglertz delivered a fresh Grace Clinton update.
Natalia Arroyo’s side return to Villa Park looking to build on their impressive 1-1 draw away to Chelsea on the opening weekend.
City provide another major test, having begun their title defence with a 3-1 victory over Birmingham City.
Their midfield options could now improve further.
Grace Clinton could return against Aston Villa Women
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Jeglertz revealed that Clinton is expected to be back in contention for the trip to Villa Park.
The England international missed City’s opening league victory against Birmingham.
However, the City boss told the club’s official website:
“I hope Grace Clinton is available.”
Clinton’s return would give City another creative midfield option for Sunday’s game.
Sydney Lohmann remains unavailable, with Jeglertz confirming the Germany international is still injured.
That means City continue to have decisions to make in central midfield, although their depth remains considerable.
Villa’s own selection picture was examined in our Aston Villa Women predicted XI against Manchester City, with Arroyo facing a decision over whether Lily Murphy should start against her parent club.
Man City boss expects tough Aston Villa test
Jeglertz also made clear that City are not expecting an easy evening at Villa Park.
The sides drew 0-0 in their last meeting in March, while Villa opened the new campaign by taking a point away to champions Chelsea.
Jeglertz said he expects “a tough game” and highlighted the confidence Villa should take from their Stamford Bridge performance.
That result was built around an outstanding defensive display, with Akane Okuma making nine saves on her competitive debut.
Villa will likely need similar resilience again.
Our Aston Villa Women vs Manchester City TV guide explains how supporters can watch Sunday’s game, which kicks off at 6.30pm BST at Villa Park.
City will arrive as favourites.
But Jeglertz’s comments show Villa’s opening performance has already earned respect from one of the division’s strongest sides.
If Clinton does return, Arroyo’s midfield will face an even greater test.
