Liverpool: New signings help Reds spark to life in FA Cup win against London Bees but WSL test awaits

The FA Cup victory was proof that Liverpool’s January signings are capable of shifting the mood around the club, with the pedigree of their new arrivals on display against the National League Division One South East side.

O’Sullivan, who has played 128 times for the Republic of Ireland, won two NWSL Championship titles and three NWSL Shields with the Courage while also lifting the NWSL Challenge Cup in 2022 and 2023.

“Liverpool is a massive club and when you join a club as big as Liverpool, it comes with massive responsibility,” she said after signing.

“I want to help this team and it’s important to get results and that’s what I’m here for, to have an impact.”

Thomas, meanwhile, has proven WSL experience with the 29‑year‑old Scotland international scoring 13 goals in 66 appearances for Tottenham.

“I know of Gareth from his time at Manchester City and know how good a coach he is,” said Thomas before the FA Cup tie.

“That drew me and also to play under a coach who is an ex-striker drew me. Other than the draw of being a Liverpool fan, that’s what brought me here.”

The Reds have also strengthened in key areas with fellow January additions Anna Josendal, Jennifer Falk and Bergstrom as they prepare for a crucial second half of the season.

But on a day when the senior recruits delivered, Trueman offered another lift.

At just 16 years and 88 days, she became the youngest player in Liverpool’s history, surpassing Lucy Parry’s previous record of 16 years and 150 days.

The teenager thought she had scored when she fired home a volley from close range only for it to be ruled out for offside while on another occasion, Bees goalkeeper Tia Ginn denied her a dream debut.

“People probably see this as an emphatic victory for us but teams make it really difficult but nothing is a given,” Taylor said.