There were muffled obscenities when the draw for the semi-finals of the Conti Cup was announced on Monday afternoon, with Chelsea being drawn against favourites Manchester City, rather than Reading.

But Emma Hayes’ ladies do have home advantage for the fixture to be played on either Saturday January 13 or Sunday January 14… with the Sunday the favourite as it’s expected to be televised.

Once the swearing and cussing had died down, the Blues began mapping out the coming weeks.

Unlike their male counterparts, Chelsea Ladies have a gentle festive season, uncomplicated by any fixtures whatsoever.

Next up is the visit to Kingsmeadow of Arsenal Ladies on Sunday January 7 at 1.30pm, a week ahead of the FA WSL Continental Tyres Cup clash.

In the other semi-final Reading are at home to Arsenal.

Tickets will shortly be available for the cup semi, once the time and date have been nailed. Visit http://www.chelseafc.com/teams/chelsea-ladies/ticket-information.html for news.