Despite finishing mid-table in the league City’s highlight was reaching the Continental Cup final, where they beat three-times champions Arsenal to claim their first silverware as a club

With losses to Chelsea in the Women’s Super League (WSL) and the FA Cup, City are determined not to make it a third defeat as they enter uncharted waters on Sunday.

Women’s football is making progress in the city – but more needs to be done to prolong girls’ interest in the sport, says FC United of Manchester Women’s manager Lee Sutton.

Cushing is hopeful that their “unique” style of play can bring them further success this season with City in their debut season.

City lost 2-0 in the midlands on their return to Women’s Super League action last weekend after a mid-season hiatus.

City to start league season in WSL on April 17 after FA Women’s Cup season-opener against Reading

Blues defender replaces Casey Stoney after already captaining England twice, in January against Norway and in Cyprus Cup against Canada