The 19-year-old put pen to paper on a new multi-year deal with City this week, committing her immediate future with the Cup double winners.
A regular starter in Cushing’s side – despite her tender age – and one of the key attacking threats throughout the campaign so far, Hemp is rapidly making a name for herself as one of the most exciting young talents in the English game.
Having already achieved success with FA Cup and Continental Cup triumphs – and with a goal on the biggest stage in the FA Cup Final at Wembley Stadium – the forward has earned deserved acclaim for her performances, and Cushing believes the youngster can accomplish whatever she puts her mind to.
“The future is bright for Lauren,” he declared.
READ: Lauren Hemp pens new City deal
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TICKETS: City v Brighton | FA WSL
“We knew when we signed her that we needed to get her playing at the top level consistently.
“There is a huge responsibility and expectation to be part of a winning team, and that will bring the best out of her.
“Her attitude is exceptional and her drive to improve is brilliant.
“It’s unfortunate that she hasn’t had the amount of pitch time we had wanted her to have, through injury, but we’re getting consistency now and we’re starting to see how much of a threat she is.
“It’s part of football – to pick up injuries here and there – but we know how dangerous she can be when she’s running at full-backs, creating chances.”
Hemp’s displays over the past 12 months have attracted a lot of attention, including that of England manager Phil Neville.
Following inclusions in a series of training camps, Hemp received her first cap in October this year, introduced from the bench in a friendly victory over Portugal.
Now pushing for a regular place for both Club and country, Hemp has been tipped to emulate the achievements of her predecessors, and Cushing asserts that – should she continue to develop at her rapid pace – there is no limit to her potential.
“This year, with more games, scoring and contributions with goals, she’s earned her first England senior call-up,” he reflected
“We have to keep playing her and keep pushing, and we’ll both benefit from that.”
City compete a memorable 2019 with the FA Women’s Super League visit of Brighton and Hove Albion to the Academy Stadium on Sunday 15 December (12:30pm).
Tickets for all home games are available online and at the Etihad Stadium Ticket Office.
