In the wake of Chelsea’s heartbreaking loss to Arsenal in the Continental Tyres League Cup final, Erin Cuthbert has rallied her team, emphasizing the need to convert disappointment into motivation as they set their sights on multiple trophies for the remainder of the season.

The Blues’ hopes for League Cup glory were dashed by a late extra-time goal from Stina Blackstenius, leaving Emma Hayes’s side reeling from the missed opportunity. Despite a spirited performance that saw Mayra Ramirez’s goal controversially disallowed by VAR for a Cuthbert handball, Chelsea fell short in their pursuit of silverware.

However, Cuthbert, who donned the captain’s armband for much of the final, remains resolute in her belief that Chelsea can bounce back stronger. Looking ahead to the challenges awaiting them after the international break, including the Women’s Super League, the Women’s FA Cup, and the UEFA Women’s Champions League, she stresses the importance of using the disappointment as fuel for their ambition.

“We’re disappointed because we had a couple of big chances,” Cuthbert acknowledged. “But we need to use this now to kick on after the international break. We can then all look each other in the eye, reflect inward, and then kick on with the bit between our teeth.”

The international break offers a valuable opportunity for reflection and rejuvenation, allowing the team to reset and refocus after a grueling schedule. Cuthbert recognizes the significance of this period and draws parallels with past experiences to inspire her teammates.

“When we come back, we will still be competing in three competitions. So we’re still lucky. We’ll hit the reset button, and last year, after we lost the Continental Cup final, it fueled us to go on and win more trophies. We’re hoping it is the same again.”

Despite falling short in the final, Cuthbert commends her team’s unwavering effort and commitment throughout the match and acknowledges the toll of a demanding schedule.

“I think it was a game of small margins. Super close. We had a few chances and ultimately they took theirs. But I can’t fault the efforts today. We gave everything for 120 minutes.”