FA Women’s Cup final: Arsenal hoping to make it a lucky 13 for departing Kerr

Shelley Kerr will step down as manager of Arsenal after the Women’s FA Cup final tomorrow (Getty Images)

Shelley Kerr and Andy Spence both believe their teams are ready for the occasion ahead of Saturday’s final of the FA Women’s Cup.

The two managers will lead their Arsenal and Everton teams out at MK Dons’ stadiummk for the showpiece match – but this final will be Kerr’s last match in charge of the 12-time winners Arsenal after she announced her resignation last week. She said: “Arsenal have been in this final many times before but the achievement and sense of occasion never diminishes.

“It is always one of the biggest days in our calendar and I know everyone connected with the club is really looking forward to the game.

“We know Everton have a rich history of producing talent and they have got some terrific players in their squad, so today’s game will be a really, really tough test for us. However, we have got some of the most talented experienced players in the WSL – some really exciting youngsters coming through – and we’ve also got some top-quality players from overseas.

“Our supporters have been fantastic ever since I’ve been here and I want to take this opportunity to thank them. The final is as much for them as it is us.”

Spence’s young side overcame Notts County in the semi-finals and he believes Everton will take the occasion in their stride. “I’ve got no doubt they will be excited,” he said. “There will be nerves and all of those emotions but the girls have already shown in previous rounds that they’re ready to handle big games in this competition. You can see the spirit is high and excitement is starting to build towards the weekend.”

The FA Girls’ Youth Cup final – between the Merseyside rivals of Everton and Liverpool – will take place beforehand at 1pm with the main game kicking-off at 4.30pm.