OXFORD United are preparing to face one of the best women’s sides in Europe tonight when Manchester City roll up at Court Place Farm.

The visitors are a big attraction and provided eight members of the England squad for this summer’s European Championships.

While they could make changes for the Continental Cup tie as they juggle a variety of competitions at home and abroad, U’s defender Lauren Haynes wants to see the likes of Steph Houghton, Jill Scott and Nikita Parris on the teamsheet.

She said: “Obviously we want the best chance, but of course you want to play against the top players, it’s the only way you’ll get better.

“It is a tough tie, they’re in the Champions League and half their squad have just come back from the Euros.

“For us to get drawn against them is exciting and obviously it’s going to be a real test for us, so we’re looking forward to it.

“When we got the fixtures this is the one everyone looked at and I think for the fans as well straight away it was the one they’re interested in the most.”

A crowd of 204 watched Andy Cook’s side maintain their unbeaten run in Women’s Super League 2 on Sunday with a 2-2 draw against Brighton & Hove Albion.

But that figure is likely to be dwarfed this evening, with the hosts laying on a bus service from Thornhill park and ride to cope.

Haynes, who will miss the game through injury, said: “We want everyone to come down.

“The ticket sales have been through the roof and it’s a big game.

“For the young kids who want to come and see the players who were at the Euros it’s ideal, as well as watching Oxford United.

“We’re looking at over 1,000, I’d be sad if it was under that.”

Although United have impressed so far this season, Haynes is realistic about their chances of coming out on top tonight.

But it does not mean it is mission impossible on a huge night for the club.

She said: “I would say this is the biggest game we’ve had and could potentially be that way for a long time.

“They are now contenders in the Champions League and I don’t think they’ve lost a game this season.

“But anything can happen – London Bees beat Chelsea last year in the Continental Cup.

“We’ve got a game plan and we’ll stick to it and if it works, then great.”