The skipper was forced off in the first-half, following a collision which left her requiring stitches, but club physiotherapist Helen Vaughan has revealed the defender has not suffered any severe effects since.
“Steph seems to be making a good recovery but we are still monitoring her,” she declared. “The doctor seems relatively happy with her progress but with a head injury, you have to be absolutely sure.
“Over the last few days, we have been easing her into training. She does not have concussion which is a relief but she has a nasty cut.
“Typically, she wanted to carry on playing on Sunday - until she stood up and realised it probably wasn’t a good idea!
“Overall though, she is in good spirits and we will have more of an idea on whether of not she’ll be in contention for the Liverpool game towards the end of the week.”
Houghton is eager to return to action as soon as possible but understands her health is a priority - particularly with this type of injury.
“I wanted to stay on against Chelsea but I did feel a bit groggy,” she recalled. “Of course, Helen knows what’s best to do and that was to come off and get stitches.
“I’d gone up for a header and although I managed to win it, one of the Chelsea players caught me. I think I was on my way down and she was on the way up.
“It was unfortunate but it’s just one of those things in football.
“I’d like to hope I can start on Sunday but we have to see what the doctor says and take things day by day.”
MCWFC will seek to return to winning ways in the FA Women’s Super League in Sunday’s clash against Liverpool Ladies.
Tickets for the fixture are £6 for adults and £4 for under-16s. Concessionary discounts are also available with admission for 16-21 year-olds, over-65s and disabled supporters priced at £5.
Kick-off is at 2pm on 27 July at the Manchester Regional Arena, Rowsley Street, M11 3FF.
Tickets can be purchased online or at the Etihad Stadium box office.
