Hayes spoke about the fact that she expects a tough battle on the road this Sunday at her Friday press conference.
"Leicester have proved they are a difficult team to beat. Man City took 80 minutes to score past them at home a couple of weeks ago. Leicester might feel aggrieved with the goals we've scored against them up there over the years," Hayes stated. "I expect nothing but an aggressive performance from them, I expect nothing but a really tight game. So for me is about winning the game. I'm not focused on goal difference."
Discounting the obvious long-term injuries such as Mia Fishel, Chelsea will be without James due to yellow card accumulation. Fran Kirby and Maren Mjelde are supposably in doubt according to the Blues' manager. Catarina Macario could make her season debut, but most likely as an impact substitute. The American was seen in training on Friday with captain Millie Bright, another player who eyes a return to play in the coming weeks.
Chelsea Women at Leicester City predicted starting XI
Goalkeeper: Hannah Hampton
Defenders: Jess Carter, Nathalie Björn, Niamh Charles, Eve Perisset
Midfielders: Erin Cuthbert, Melanie Leupolz, Jelena Cankovic
Forwards: Guro Reiten, Mayra Ramirez, Johanna Rytting Kaneryd
Chelsea Women at Leicester City match info
Date: Sunday, March 3
Time: 18:00 GMT, 1:00 p.m. EST
TV Broadcast: Paramount+, Sky Sports
Get yourself a ticket for Chelsea Women's next match at Stamford Bridge against Arsenal Women on March 15. Click the link to purchase your spot in the SW6 on that day.