With European football returning and big games against Arsenal and Lyon on the horizon, there will be plenty of opportunities for players to make their mark in the weeks ahead.

Melvine Malard did exactly that at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, coming off the bench to score our second goal in a 2-0 victory over Birmingham. For Nusken, the forward’s contribution was a timely reminder of the difference fresh legs can make.

‘It’s really important,’ she explained when asked about having players like Malard to call upon. ‘You can always see when they’re coming on that they bring more energy onto the pitch, and that’s what we need.

‘We have a long season ahead, so everyone is needed.’

Lexi Potter’s early opener had given the Blues the advantage, but despite creating a series of chances, we had to wait until the second half for Malard to provide some breathing space.

The forward was introduced in the 63rd minute and found the net eight minutes later, helping us secure three points in front of our home supporters.

‘Playing here at Stamford Bridge with the fans was amazing,’ Nusken reflected. ‘I think we created a lot of chances, had good opportunities, and we are happy with the 2-0 win.

‘It was a little bit tight when we were winning 1-0, so it was our aim to get another goal. It was really good when Mel came in. It was such a good game from her, and a goal from her, so it was really good.’

Attention now turns to Europe, with Austria Vienna our opponents at Plough Lane on Wednesday evening as we begin the league phase of the Women’s Champions League.

We then return to Stamford Bridge to face Arsenal on Sunday in the WSL and with Lyon also among the challenges to come, it is an exciting spell for the Blues, and Nusken is eager to get our European campaign under way.

‘We are happy to play Champions League again,’ she said. ‘We can’t wait to get it started.’