Preview: United Women v Leicester City

The 12:00 BST start at Leigh Sports Village provides a return to domestic action for the Reds, following progress in the UEFA Champions League qualifiers, with home-and-away games against Brann to come, in a bid to reach the league phase of the prestigious competition.

After a third-placed finish last term, hopes are high for another positive season, with some key changes for supporters to note as we get back under way again...

HOW TO WATCH AND FOLLOW

Sky Sports are broadcasting the midday kick-off live and you can also listen to radio commentary on the United App.

Liam Bradford is joined by ex-keeper Siobhan Chamberlain to keep you abreast of all developments.

Highlights will follow after detailed analysis, reaction and updates.

Tickets are still available to attend the match and season-ticket prices start at only £40.

TEAM NEWS

Marc Skinner will be without several players for the opener. Speaking at his press conference, he pointed to a few issues but Jess Park is eligible to make her debut, following the deadline-day move from Manchester City.

"We've currently got a few out," he said. "Frida [Rolfo] and Rach [Williams] are training, so probably more likely for the Brann match, or London City.

"Gabby [George] is probably about a week away and, then, Leah [Galton] is probably a couple of weeks away. Simi [Awujo] is a little bit further, two or three weeks away.

"They're not major injuries, just hangovers from the end of last season and so on. They should be alright in the next two to three weeks."

Leicester are pushing through international clearance for latest signing, Morocco forward Rosella Ayane, and have also brought in the likes of Olivia McLoughlin, from Rangers, and Arsenal defender Cecily Wellesley-Smith, the latter capture on loan.

Finland striker Jutta Rantala has returned to training but may not be ready in time, and Missy Goodwin is definitely ruled out.

IMPORTANT NEWS FOR FANS

This is the first game where supporters can choose to drink alcohol (or non-alcoholic alternatives) at their seats and in view of the pitch. We are one of 15 BWSL clubs taking part in a trial to allow drinking in the bowl, instead of concourse or executive boxes at WSL games. The trial has been developed with fan experience at the helm, enabling spectators to drink responsibly without missing any action.

There is plenty more going on (see here), including junior attendees being able to show their skills on the MUGA pitch, behind The Whistling Wren, from 10:00 BST and the Legends Bar opening from half an hour earlier.

You can apply for a post-match meet and greet here and learn the matchday songbook from this guide.

TRAVEL DETAILS

A return shuttle bus from Old Trafford to Leigh Sports Village can be booked through One Club United.

Please be aware there are ongoing roadworks on Atherleigh Way, so it is worth allowing more time for your journey.

WHO ELSE IS PLAYING?

Friday 

Chelsea v Manchester City (19:30 BST)

Saturday

Arsenal v London City Lionesses (13:30 BST)

Sunday

Brighton v Aston Villa
Liverpool v Everton
UNITED v Leicester City
Tottenham Hotspur v West Ham United

Kick-offs 12:00 BST unless stated.