HOPE Powell is aware that Albion’s claim to third place in the WSL could come under threat.

Albion face sixth-placed Manchester United at the People’s Pension Stadium on Sunday before playing leaders Arsenal away in their final game before the Christmas break on December 19.

When they resume, Albion’s first game is against last season’s Manchester City on January 9.

“We’ve had a really good start to the season and the players are determined that will continue, but we’re under no illusions that the points gap between us in third and the rest is quite small.

The Argus: Brighton and Hove Albion manager Hope Powell (left) and assistant manager Amy Merricks watch the warm upBrighton and Hove Albion manager Hope Powell (left) and assistant manager Amy Merricks watch the warm up

“Sunday is going to be a tough game. Marc Skinner [Manchester United manager] is trying to embed his philosophy and has a great squad of players.

“Just because they are not in the position people might expect means nothing.

“We will have to be at our best and, as always, it is all about how we play on the day.

“We have played well in games this season and dropped points and less well and won games.

“That’s what this league is all about. But after Sunday we have Arsenal and Man City in our next two league games so we know things like league positions can change very quickly.

“The attitude of the players has been fantastic though. We deserve to be where we are and we want to keep playing well and progressing.”

Albion lost their last match against Reading 2-0. This as seen the gap between them and Chelsea in second widen to six points.