Off the back of a rapid turnaround from Sunday’s demanding clash with Arsenal, the Blues were forced to dig deep during an entertaining draw with the most successful club in Women's Champions League history.

Malard, who was tasked with leading the attack against familiar faces, highlighted the competitive nature of the contest and the character shown by the squad.

‘There was some good play,’ said Malard.

‘It was a good battle. That’s why it’s a good result, because there was attacking, there was defending, there were chances. So we keep the point.

‘We played three days ago against Arsenal in a match where we gave a lot. Here as well we gave a lot. In the first half, we could have attacked them a bit more, but especially with LJ’s last shot, we could have scored. But it’s a good result for us.’

Occupying the focal point of the Chelsea attack, the 24-year-old was handed important tactical responsibilities by Sonia Bompastor, who was also coming up against her former side.

Malard faced a resolute Lyon defensive line but worked tirelessly for the good of the team, and she explained afterwards what her role in the side was.

‘I have a position where I often have to try to hold the ball as high as possible and help the balance of our midfielders,’ she explained.

‘Lyon have a good defence which is well marshalled, but I think it went well and in terms of intensity, defence, attack, we matched them.’