The Blues bowed out with pride after last night’s 1-1 draw in Barcelona, with the Spaniards’ narrow first-leg victory at the Bridge ultimately proving decisive.

Chelsea gave it everything and after Guro Reiten had equalised we pinned our illustrious hosts back and most certainly had them fearing a first home defeat in over four years.

Unfortunately, the second goal that would have taken the tie to extra-time was not forthcoming, leaving Charles to reflect on our European exit and promise the Blues will return stronger.

‘Firstly, we feel gutted,’ she said.

‘But we can feel proud that we implemented what we practiced in training. Every single player gave everything.

‘We did not come here simply to soak up Barca pressure and then play on the break. We tried to balance knowing where and when to push and press, but also when to sit and hold then at the right time, because we respect them.

‘Across this and the first leg, it’s about fine details. We’ll come again next year.’