Skinner feeling confident ahead of United's clash with Arsenal

Marc Skinner is in confident mood ahead of Manchester United's Women's Super League clash with fellow title hopefuls Arsenal on Friday.

The Red Devils go into their first home game of the season on the back of a dramatic 2-1 win at Aston Villa last Sunday, secured by a stoppage-time header from Rachel Williams.

Arsenal, on the other hand, are seeking to improve on their 1-0 opening weekend defeat to Liverpool in front of a record crowd at the Emirates.

Skinner, 40, said: "I'm always confident, I believe in this team, I believe in what they can do.

"You want to capitalise on that but you also have to be aware of your opponents and what they can do.

"Arsenal have been one of the top teams in the country for many, many years. 

"My players don't need a psychological edge. They already want to beat every single team they play. It will be a very difficult game."

Skinner is eager for United to make Leigh Sports Village a fortress as they seek to improve on finishing as runners-up last term. 

He added: "We're at home, we're in front of a sold-out crowd so the venue will be rocking.

"We want to make it a fortress again. Our players know that and are in the right mindset.

"Being Manchester United players, it doesn't matter that Arsenal have got a historic record of winning the league.

"We can prepare for these games. We won't stop until that final whistle and I think that's scary to play against. 

"We're going to come to you, we're relentless to the end."

Skinner has confirmed United have no fresh injury issues, with Aoife Mannion and Emma Watson the only absentees.