Mustaki relishing WSL challenge with 'underdogs' Bristol City

Chloe Mustaki believes Bristol City are "underdogs" in the Women's Super League but is backing the Robins to remain in the top flight for the foreseeable future.

Lauren Smith's side fell to a 4-2 home defeat to Leicester on the opening day of the season, despite taking the lead through Carrie Jones.

They won the Championship last term to return to the top flight for the first time in two years and the quality of football has only improved in their absence.

Republic of Ireland international Mustaki, 28, admits every game will be a challenge but is confident the Robins can pick up enough points to survive.

She said: "We're the underdogs, so we have a lot to prove this season. Every single member of every squad is a great player and every single team in this league has a right to be there. 

"Each game is going to be tough but we'll have to try and pick up points wherever we can and hopefully that will be enough.

"I want to help the team retain their place in the WSL this season. If we can manage to do that, I think you'll see Bristol City remain in the WSL for the long-term. 

"That first year back is always a difficult one. So if we can manage to do that, I think we'll really compete in the years to come."

Early tests

City have already faced Leicester — another side likely to be fighting for survival — and will battle Tottenham on Sunday in another early test.

The clash with Spurs, who also lost on the opening day, may give Mustaki and Co a good opportunity to get some points on the board.

But the former Charlton defender is not convinced playing direct rivals early on is a benefit.

She said: "It's an interesting one from my perspective. I'm not sure how much of an advantage it is to play the likes of Leicester and Tottenham so early.

"We just need to deal with the situation as best as we can and we'll be going there with the intention of getting something from the game.

"We've brought in some great players and hopefully we can gel and learn from these first few games."

Late bloomer

Mustaki only signed her first professional contract in 2022 but has already earned six caps for her country and was part of Ireland's World Cup squad.

Having overcome an ACL injury earlier in her career, she is now hoping to use her resilience and experience to drive progress in the West of England.

Mustaki said: "I'll do my best whenever called upon and whenever I get the opportunity to play.

"I threw myself in a year ago, which is a lot later than a lot of girls, so in a way I'm still trying to improve as a player.

"The speed of the game has really flipped over the past few years but we've got really good quality all around the pitch."