Bedford Looking To Meet New Challenges Head On

- LCFC Women's 2022/23 Barclays Women's Super League fixtures have been confirmed
- Manager Lydia Bedford says the Foxes are excited to compete in the WSL once again
- City open their new season with an away clash against Everton on 10/11 September
- Bedford expects a 'competitive opening day fixture' versus the Toffees 

City preserved their top-flight status last time out, finishing two points above Birmingham City, at the conclusion of their first-ever WSL season. Ambitions will naturally be on once again remaining in the division in 2022/23 and hopes are high that LCFC Women can consolidate their position. 

Bedford, who agreed a new two-year contract at the Club this summer, is excited by the tests which are likely to come her side's way this year. She was speaking after it was confirmed that an away trip to Everton will be first up for the Foxes on the weekend of 10/11 September. 

All home fixtures, on the other hand, are currently scheduled to be played at King Power Stadium, with Burton’s Pirelli Stadium to serve as an alternative venue in the event of fixture clashes. Tottenham Hotspur will be Leicester's first opponents on Filbert Way on 17/18 September.

"Fixture release day is an occasion that everybody connected with football looks forward to," Bedford said. "Having retained our Barclays Women’s Super League status last season, the team is excited to compete in the women’s top flight once again this year – myself and the coaching staff included. 

"The upcoming season will provide new challenges for our squad and the imminent campaign is one we are all looking forward to. With Everton on the horizon, the team has returned to Belvoir Drive to commence our pre-season programme."

Bedford says LCFC Women anticipate a tough opening to their second WSL season when they tackle Everton on the opening day. The Toffees, who finished one place above the Foxes last year, are under new management after the appointment of Brian Sørensen. 

"Everton are traditionally a strong side in our division, and we are expecting a competitive opening day fixture away from home," Bedford added.

"With a new manager at the helm, and a transitional period underway at Walton Hall Park, our team will have to display their versatility and problem-solving abilities as we look to kick the season off with a positive result. 

“We’re also delighted to again host teams at King Power Stadium, starting with Tottenham Hotspur in our first home game.

"Last year’s experiences on Filbert Way will live long in the minds of everyone associated with LCFC Women, and the opportunity to create more memories this year gives us all motivation to exceed our own high standards."