The Blues ended a run of four games without a win with a 2-1 win over Birmingham in the Continental Cup last week but are looking to get back to winning ways in the FA Women’s Super League against the Hammers.
READ: Ellie Roebuck on Women’s Football Weekend
Cushing is happy with the squad’s mentality but believes an improving West Ham will be a difficult obstacle.
“We feel we’re in a good place, but West Ham are a difficult team,” said Cushing.
“I certainly wouldn’t call this an ideal game for us because, that would be disrespectful to West Ham.
“It was their first season last year and they are finding out about themselves
“We can relate to that - we had it in 2014. In our second season, we qualified for Champions League, but lost some games - every game in Women’s Super League is far more competitive now - it’s a great sign for women’s football, but also a lot harder, but when you win, it’s more satisfying.
“I have huge respect for Matt Beard and what he does at West Ham - they’re a dangerous team and maybe just need time in their second season for momentum.”
Cushing added that he isn’t looking for his players to react to recent set-backs as their standards are continually high and consistency levels excellent.
“No, there’s not been a reaction in training because they’ve worked consistently hard throughout season.
“We just didn’t perform in little areas in certain games and that’s natural. These players are human beings. They won every competitive game they played last season - every game was wanted to win a trophy.
“We haven’t panicked -we are disappointed about exiting the Champions League, but we sit one point off the top and we are still in both cups.
“The positive is that it annoys them - when they don’t get what they want they train harder. Didn’t think it was possible to train harder. I don’t panic when they’re beaten, we just find the reasons, and address them.”
The City boss also gave a fitness update on his squad, adding: “Demi Stokes has a bit of sickness and didn’t train yesterday, but she’s okay.
“Laura Coombs is back in full training. Karen Bardsley is still out and Aoife Mannion out for foreseeable future.”
City are back in FA Women’s Super League action against West Ham on November 17th. Kick-off at the Academy Stadium is 12.30pm and tickets are available.
