Renee Slegers: Arsenal boss expects different game in Man City League Cup tie | OneFootball

Arsenal boss Renee Slegers expects a different game against Manchester City in the League Cup semi-finals on Thursday evening, than the seven-goal thriller in the WSL last weekend.

The Gunners emerged as narrow winners in the league meeting between the two sides at the Joie Stadium on Sunday. Mariona Caldentey gave the visitors an early lead inside the opening minute and Lotte Wubben-Moy made it 2-0 in Arsenal's favour shortly after.

Twice, City were able to put themselves back on level terms with goals from Mary Fowler and former Arsenal star Vivianne Miedema, but second half goals from Frida Maanum and Stina Blackstenius put the 4-3 result beyond doubt.

The victory put Arsenal two points clear of City in the WSL standings and ten behind runaway leaders Chelsea. That being said, Slegers is wary Thursday's clash will be an entirely different game after such a quick turnaround and with a place in the League Cup final on the line.

"It's going to be a very tight game," the manager told a press conference on Wednesday afternoon. "It's two top teams and we were very happy we came away with the win in the last game.

"We're very humble and both feet are on the ground. We know that City will come to Borehamwood and will want to do something different.

"I think they're happy with the three goals they scored, but not happy with the four conceded. They will come and change things and make it even harder for us and try to exploit us as well.

"It's going to be a hard game but we’re looking good. We’re humble, but also confident about the game tomorrow."

Arsenal beat Manchester City 4-3 on Sunday in the WSL / Visionhaus/GettyImages

Arsenal will be boosted by the return of Katie McCabe, who has served a suspension after being sent off against Chelsea last month. Caitlin Foord will also return to the fold after an injury lay-off.

"No injuries or illnesses," the manager added. "Everyone that was available last Sunday is available."

"Caitlin Foord is back available and Katie McCabe is back from suspension. We have to progress Jenna [Nighswonger] really well as she comes in off the back of a break in the U.S., so we have to be smart with her. Lina [Hurtig] is recovering from a muscle injury. The exact prognosis I can't share at the moment, but she's doing work on the pitch."

Arsenal have won this competition more than any other team with seven titles to their name since 2011. The Gunners have won the last two finals against Chelsea and will be determined to make it three out of three this season.

For Slegers, this represents an opportunity to reach her first final as Arsenal boss and contest for the trophy against either Chelsea or West Ham at Pride Park in Derby next month.

"We're very aware of what kind of game we're going to play and what it could mean for us," Slegers assessed. "We look forward to it and we want to go for trophies.

"I want the best for the team. What it would mean for me is happiness because it would be a spot in the final for the team, the girls and all the staff in the background working really hard."