Royals forward on a difficult start to the season, squad morale, getting that first goal of the season and a big challenge coming up.

“It’s been a mixed start from us admittedly, but there has been plenty of positives in what we have done already which we can take with us moving into the next few games.

“Going away to United is a tough game, especially first game of the season. Our performance wasn’t good enough from the first whistle, and that’s perhaps something you could say about all three games we’ve played. It’s a difficult situation, but it’s similar to our start last season, and then we went on an unbeaten record.

“So we know in ourselves once we get that first win, we will use that momentum. We put in a good performance against Tottenham, against a really strong side, so even that acts as a huge platform for us to build on.

“There has been a lot of controversy in our games too, with some big decisions going against us, but we also need to be more clinical when we are on top. I know I’ve had some big chances this season, which on any other day I would take, but I’ve been in this game long enough to know things can change very quickly and it’s a case of continuing to work hard in training.

“We have an exciting team this season, one that when we’re on the front foot we can create chances against anyone, which as a forward is great as you know the opportunities will keep on coming and we just have to keep getting ourselves in the position to score.

“The new girls coming in have had a positive impact on the squad too. Off the pitch they’re all good people, funny characters, and on the pitch they work hard for the team and have instantly adopted our philosophies. Of course new players need some time to adapt, but they’ve adjusted really quick. Charlie [Wellings] getting her first goal against Brighton, Lauren [Wade] put in a brilliant display against Tottenham just to name a few.

“Then having the return of Emma [Mukandi], the experience she brings, that winners mentality, and she’s a brilliant leader to us all. She’s experienced plenty of success in this league with Arsenal, and that helps us in those big moments especially in the position she plays.

“We have another big moment coming up, against Arsenal on Sky Sports, and games don’t come bigger than this one. They’ve got world class players across the pitch, and have started the season well, it’ll be tough but it’s something we all relish. We’ve shown in the past what we can do in these big games, and we all have the belief and determination to do it again.

“Every game is tough in this league, as women’s football continues to grow and develop. It’s why we have to show the right attitude and level of desire from game to game.

“It’s going to be a busy month, with West Ham and Leicester quickly following Arsenal, and these teams require just as much concentation as these are the teams that you’d imagine will finish around us, and we have to come out on top.

“But we don’t like looking past the upcoming game, as for us it’s about trying to get something out of Arsenal, getting some points on the board, and taking away plenty of positives to put in the next two games.

Dowie: “We have big moments coming up, which we’ll be ready for!”