Whelan claims Foxes can trade punches with WSL heavyweights

Aileen Whelan believes Leicester's start to the season proves they can compete with the best teams in the Women's Super League.

The Foxes have taken seven points from their opening four matches, including a 1-1 draw at Manchester United and a marginal 1-0 defeat to Manchester City.

And their skipper is adamant the club's pre-season optimism has been justified.

She told LiveScore: "We're moving in the right direction, especially playing like that against teams that finished in the top four last season.

"We put on good performances and were unfortunate in the City game with the goal that went in. But we can compete.

"We had a goal in sight for the first six games and we're on track. 

"The game plans are going well so the performances are taking care of themselves."

Trust the process

Leicester have beaten Bristol City and Everton in the WSL this term, continuing the upturn in form that saw them beat the drop last term. 

And Whelan credits manager Willie Kirk, who was appointed last November, for inspiring the club to new heights.

She added: "We're much more professional now, on and off the field.

"The recruitment has been really good and that has helped results.

"For me, what Willie has brought is that aggression in terms of attacking from the front. 

"We can go out and win the ball back and stop teams getting anywhere near our goal.

"We sat down in pre-season, staff and players, and talked about what we want to achieve and how we're going to achieve it. It's about trusting the process."

Leader of the pack

That summer recruitment drive saw the Foxes assemble a squad with a healthy blend of youth and experience as the likes of 35-year-old Janice Cayman were joined by 23-year-old duo Aimee Palmer and Jutta Rantala.

Whelan, 32, is on the older end of the scale and her leadership role means she takes responsibility for the development of new signings and young players coming through the ranks.

She said: "Part of my personality is helping people.

"I think the captaincy role suits me. Everyone needs support, whether they're young or experienced, and whoever it is we'll get each other through it."

The midfielder believes 16-year-old striker Denny Draper is a talent worth keeping a close eye on.

She added: "Denny is coming up through the ranks and looks like a born goalscorer.

"Give her a few years, get her some WSL experience and she'll definitely be one to watch."

In the mix

Just three points separates first and seventh in the WSL table after four rounds of matches — a batch of teams that includes Leicester in fifth.

Ahead of their trip to Liverpool on Sunday, Whelan is optimistic the league will continue to provide thrills and spills.

She said: "The most exciting thing is how it's less predictable.

"Nobody's running away with it. It's still early but it's clear teams are capable of beating each other and picking points up.

"We just want to put in another good performance this weekend and the result will take care of itself.

"We know we can score goals and we know we can win."