Against a Foxes side that was difficult to break down, the England international produced a typically industrious performance in the heart of the Chelsea midfield to earn the official Player of the Match award.

That was somewhat of a surprise to Walsh, but the 28-year-old's output underlined her importance. She reclaimed possession on eight occasions, won four duels, and also forced a good save from Leicester City goalkeeper Janina Leitzig with a shot from distance just before half-time.

‘It was a difficult game from start to finish,’ reflected Walsh. ‘We would have liked to have a little bit more control than we did, but credit to Leicester. I think they came out, they went man for man, they made it difficult, and it was a really, really tough game.

‘Obviously, we won, but we're probably not happy with the performance. I think there are areas where we can improve, but it's the same aim as always, playing for Chelsea. We want to win all the trophies, and we want to win in a good style this year. We've got to work on that going forward.

‘I wasn't expecting it (Player of the Match). I thought their keeper had an incredible game, to be fair to her, especially in the first half. She made some really good saves. It's obviously nice to pick it up, but more important to get the win.’

During a game largely fought in midfield, Aggie Beever-Jones proved the difference between the two sides with a seventh-minute goal.

And Walsh, who also plays alongside Beever-Jones with England, feels fortunate to work alongside her young team-mate.

‘Her stats speak for themselves,’ she continued. ‘It’s an incredible ability that she's got to be so composed, and I think for such a young player, it just comes naturally to her to finish those chances, and luckily for her, she doesn't feel the pressure too much.

'She’s a great character. She just loves playing football. She loves playing for this club. We’re lucky to have her.’