Impetus’ Nathan Edwards was in Chelsea’s media conference this afternoon ahead of Sunday’s game with Aston Villa and reports on how General Manager Paul Green is expecting an exceptionally tough tussle at Kingsmeadow (28/10/22).
Above: Paul Green, Chelsea’s General Manager fully expects a hard battle on Sunday against Aston Villa. Photo: Flora McLean
Chelsea General manager Paul Green is more than aware that the champions have a big job on their hands as they face Aston Villa at Kingsmeadow on Sunday.
The Blues will be looking to add to their unbeaten run that stretches back to the opening day, where newly-promoted Liverpool stunned them at Prenton Park.
Green said about the threats the Villans hold, “We know how tough Carla Ward’s side will make it at the weekend.”
On that occasion last season, Chelsea were held at bay by a long series of sensational saves by Hannah Hampton in the Villa goal, but cometh the hour, cometh Sam Kerr as Green continued.
“We had that last season against them, it was probably one of trickiest games at home that needed a last-minute winner from Sam Kerr.”
“The celebrations after that goal, deep in injury time, show how difficult it will be and we have to try and use that momentum from midweek and try to carry it over to get a victory at Kingsmeadow on Sunday.”
The club’s General Manager also reflected on his spell to date in tandem with former Denise Reddy, stating how they have both “enjoyed stepping up” in Emma Hayes’ recovery from surgery.
Green and Reddy have been in charge of the Blues since Hayes underwent surgery in mid-October and have carried on the solid form.
The West London club are yet to lose under the pair and have recorded three consecutive clean sheets, the first time since April.
About his temporary role, Green said, “We (Green and Reddy) are really enjoying it but at the same time we will be delighted when Emma (Hayes) comes back.
“We have enjoyed stepping up in this period, and the process we have put in place for over ten years makes it an easier transition.
“Everybody has pulled together to get the results we need for the club, and for Hayes, in this period.”
On a personal level for the former Doncaster Rovers Belles manager, Hayes’ absence has meant he has had to handle the media, with Reddy taking control of on-field decisions.
Green said, “Seeing it from a different point of view, I now know some things that Hayes use to tell me when she had finished with the press or the office.
“We have won every game, so from that point of view it makes it easier to be in this position compared to if we hadn’t won games.”
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