Martin on his reflections on the Arsenal game after looking back this week…
“I thought we were good in the first half. We broke through their pressure well and progressed up the pitch effectively. There were moments where we could have been a little cleaner, but compared to previous performances against them, we knew we needed a reaction - and I certainly got that with and without the ball. In the second half, we could have been more proactive at times. We had chances where we needed to be more ruthless. We also need players to be braver and take shots instead of always looking to assist, but that comes with confidence and belief. Overall, I think we deserved a point and maybe could have nicked it at the end with a couple of chances and breakaways. But I was pleased with the response and felt the performance warranted something from the game.
On the record-breaking attendance at Brisbane Road and the strong following away from home…
“The fans have really bought into what we’re trying to do and the direction we’re going. Even away from home they’ve supported us well. London City was a big turning point - from start to finish, we out-sang and out-cheered the home team. Then, against Arsenal, having over 7,000 in the ground was a great feeling for the players and for me. The visibility and connections are there, and we want to keep bringing those fans back and attracting new ones. It’s important for pushing the team and women’s football forward, and for generating bigger attendances.”
On Bristol City and what to expect…
“They’ve done well and recruited extremely well over the summer, and I expect they’ll strengthen again in January. I’ve worked with Charlotte (Head Coach) before, and many of her players have either been at WSL level or have been successful elsewhere - players like Sophie Ingle and Vicky Losada. They have young, hungry players in their frontline and they’re pushing the top end of the Championship. They’ve had a good run and they’ll want to derail us in this competition.
“Charlotte’s [Healy] teams are well organised and efficient. They like to play forward and be direct. Defensively, they’re resilient and tough to break down. They’ve played in two systems this season, so we need to be aware of that. It’ll be a tough game; she’s a good coach with good players and staff. We need to be prepared and take the game seriously.”
On whether he will rotate the squad for the competition…
“I’ll always put out the team I believe can win the game. I don’t take any competition lightly. I’m a serial winner - I want to win. Rotating for the sake of it doesn’t show respect to the opposition. The team that I feel will win the game will play. That builds competition within the squad and strengthens belief. If opportunities arise in the game for players to start or come on, I’ll take them - but only when it’s right.”
On whether he will be watching the Men’s north London derby after the game…
“Yes, absolutely. I watch all of the Men’s games and get to a lot of them in person. I have a lot of time for Thomas [Frank], his staff, and the players. They’re in a good position, and I think they’ll go into the derby with belief and confidence.”
On working with Charlotte Healy together at Manchester United…
“Charlotte is still early in her career in England, but she has huge potential. She’s hardworking and committed, and I respect her a lot. She sees the game well and understands how she wants to play. She can go a long way in the game.”
On Olivia Holdt’s recent performances…
“Olivia is very important - as is every player - but she brings something different. She’s a maverick: technically gifted, tactically smart, with outstanding vision. She draws pressure and creates space for others. She’s been a real force going forward and has created many chances. We need to keep helping her evolve. I believe in her ability and hope she continues to progress, including with the national team.”
On what difference winning this competition would make for the team…
“It would be huge. It would give belief not only to the players but also to the club, staff, supporters, and community - reinforcing that we belong at the latter stages of major competitions. Winning breeds confidence, and confidence can take you far. Whether it's this competition, the FA Cup, or the league, they all matter. If we’re willing to do the hard yards, we put ourselves in the best position to reach finals and win.”