Houghton: It'll be strange facing old Arsenal friends

Steph Houghton admits it will be "strange" coming up against ex-team mates in The FA WSL Continental Cup Final.

The England captain will lead Manchester City Women's out for the Final at Wycombe Wanderers' Adams Park on Thursday night.

A year ago Houghton was Arsenal's skipper as they lifted their third consecutive Conti Cup - the only team to win it since the FA WSL's foundation in 2011 - but will be on the opposite side when City face the Gunners this time around.

"It's going to be a bit strange - the last time I was in the Conti Cup Final I was lifting it for the Gunners," recalled Houghton when she spoke the TheFA.com. 

"It will be funny playing against old friends and team-mates, but my whole focus is on Manchester City and leading them out for their first Cup Final.

"I'm looking forward to it and really excited."

Durham-born Houghton moved to FA WSL newcomers City at the start of the year, having scooped a host of trophies during her three and a half years in London, including two Super League titles, two FA Cups and three Conti Cups.

Her new club finished in fifth spot in their debut season in the top flight, two points behind Arsenal. 

Houghton lifted the Conti Cup with Arsenal last year

And while she's aiming for glory on Thursday night, Houghton believes City will come back even stronger next season. 

"It's been a little bit inconsistent, but we've made a load of changes this season in terms of becoming full-time professionals and the chance to train at the best facilities," said the 26-year-old.

"We got to a cup final, which nobody really expected, and we didn't expect ourselves. But we got there on hard work and merit.

"We've had some really good games this season, but we'll be looking towards next season to be a bit more consistent, add a little bit more quality and a little bit more more experience to the team."

Get your tickets to The FA Women's Super League Continental Cup Final, here