Chelsea v Manchester United: Women’s League Cup final – live

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Starting lineups

Chelsea (4-3-3): Hampton; Bronze, Buchanen, Buurman, Baltimore; Walsh, Cuthbert, Nusken; James, Kaneryd, Thompson.
Subs: Peng, Bjorn, Sarwie, Spencer, Kaptein, Potter, Beever-Jones.

Manchester United (4-2-3-1): Tullis-Joyce; Lundkvist, Le Tissier, Riviere, Janssen; Zigiotti Olme, Naalsund; Park, Terland, Malard; Wangerheim.
Subs: Middleton-Patel, Rendell, George, Turner, Anderson, Awujo, Rolfo, Drury, Schuller.

Preamble

This time last year, there was talk that Chelsea had ticked off the first trophy of a possible quadruple after they beat Manchester City in the Women’s League Cup final in Derby. Today, in Bristol, the feeling is quite different for the team that went on to win a domestic treble – not too shabby.

Chelsea’s defence of their WSL title is in tatters with Manchester City nine points clear of them – today’s opponents, Manchester United, are above them in the table. The FA Cup is still on (a quarter-final against Tottenham awaits) and a first Champions League is also possible (Arsenal stand in their way in that one). Beating United at Ashton Gate this afternoon would set them up nicely for the rest of the season.

As for United, they are still dreaming of catching City in the league (the gap is eight points) and have never won the League Cup – this is their first final. Marc Skinner’s side will also be keen to avenge their elimination at the hands of Chelsea in the fifth round of the FA Cup last month.

We will have extra time and penalties if necessary as the first trophy of the English season is handed out. Get in touch via email or simply follow along.

Kick-off is 2.15pm (GMT) – team news is coming shortly.