By Lloyd Webb
Having won every prize going during a decade-long spell at Arsenal, Rachel Yankey knows exactly what it takes to be the best.
From Champions League victories to the 2012 London Olympics, the iconic forward has been there and done it all. Now, having earned more than 100 England caps during her time at the top, she is only too happy to lend her vast experience to the next generation.
Both Chloe Kelly and Lotte Wubben-Moy were able to call on the 35-year-old's know-how when they made their full debuts in last week’s Continental Cup victory against Watford.
"It’s a really good opportunity to make sure they understand what the standard is to play for the first team"
And as Pedro Martinez Losa’s squad prepare for their Continental Cup fixture with London Bees, Yankey stressed the importance of integrating the club’s rising stars into the first-team group.
“You know that Pedro’s philosophy is to play attacking football while bringing through younger players,” she told Arsenal.com.
“It is also about getting the younger players experience as well because we’re going to need them, whether it’s this season or next.
"It’s a really good opportunity to make sure they understand what the standard is to play for the first team.”
Following Sunday's 2-1 win against Notts County, competition is fierce for a starting berth and Yankey says this can only be a plus for Losa’s title-chasing squad.
“We don’t know which team Pedro will put out yet but I’m sure that the players who played on Thursday will have staked their claim,” she said.
“They put in a good performance so hopefully they will all be able to get another chance to shine next week.”
Arsenal Ladies face London Bees at The Hive Stadium at 7.30pm (UK time) on Wednesday, July 29. You can follow live updates via @ArsenalLadies.
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