How does Kyra Cooney-Cross fit into Chelsea Women amid links?

She missed just five minutes the entire tournament as Tameka Yallop subbed her off in the quarterfinal against France before the historic penalty shoot-out. For nearly the entirely of the tournament, the Female Socceroos’s No. 23 played alongside Katrina Gorry in the middle of a midfield four. That duo was the backbone of Gustavsson’s side that relied on their discipline and tenacity.

Kyra Cooney-Cross adds young midfield depth to a Chelsea team littered with world class talent

If she were to join Chelsea, Cooney-Cross would become a part of a loaded central midfield group. On the team right now, there are arguably four other midfielders that could make up a double pivot in front of a back four.

Like Sjoeke Nüsken, her versatility stands out. For her club, she appears higher up the pitch, contributing to attacks more frequently. A team-high four assists are a testament to that. The 21-year-old could even play as a progressive wing back if called upon. Due to that background, the Aussie has the potential to be a long-term solution in the No. 10 position for Chelsea Women.

None of the work she does jumps off the page, but it is vital to capturing the result in the end. Hammarby’s No. 10 contributing less than 950 minutes last season in the Swedish top-flight and now sits in second in total time on the pitch within the side so far this season.

Sophie Ingle’s career is likely coming to an end soon, meaning another spot could be opening up. The best move is probably letting her play out the campaign in the Damallsvenskan with Maika Hamano, a league that ends in November. Like Ingle, the Australian is a tempo-dictator. A duo with Erin Cuthbert would be something special if this deal were to get finalized. With the kind of performances she put out over the last few weeks, there will be a role for the World Cup star on Hayes’ team.

Chelsea Women are back in action for a pre-season fixture vs. AS Roma at Kingsmeadow on September 3 at 8:00 BST.