Man United Women inspired by 'fantastic' Batlle and Lionesses trio - but must keep Russo

Only five years after their inception, Man United Women are second in the WSL and gunning for the title.

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They have also reached the semi finals of the FA Cup for the first time after beating Lewes on Sunday, they are flying high and ready to challenge for silverware, even though this is only the beginning.

Speaking to talkSPORT 2's Women's Football Weekly, ex-Tottenham star Jenna Schillaci said: "They're not playing their best, but they're getting results. The real positive is Ona Batlle out on the right. She's having a fantastic season. She unlocked Lewes on Sunday.

"They've come on so much. They've strengthened their team as well, they now have that belief and that quality to beat the top teams.

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"They'll be disappointed if they come out of this season with no silverware."

Aston Villa are also punching above their weight and manager Carla Ward told talkSPORT 2: "It has already been a successful season [for us] but they are ambitious and they want it to be a really successful season."

This is relevant to a lot of the teams in the WSL as it continues to grow - and the spotlight is gradually shining brighter.

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Positive change in Manchester is clear to see. Schillaci said: "Each season, they improve. Last season, they were dropping silly points and failing to turn draws into three points. This season, they've learned from that.

"They've got Ella Toone, Alessia Russo and Mary Earps - who had a phenomenal summer and came back with confidence and belief that they can achieve anything."

The England trio showed the world what they could do at the Euros last summer, with Toone scoring in the final against Germany on the Lionesses' route to glory.

That was only the beginning of their football success, as they continue to impress everyone at Man United.

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Schillaci added: "I think that mindset is rubbing off on the other players as well."

However, superstar Russo's future is in doubt. The Red Devils rejected a record bid from Arsenal in January - but the 24-year-old's contract expires this summer.

Schillaci said: "I'm sure they'll recruit, keeping Russo will be their No.1 target. They have to keep her if they want to kick on."

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Moving into the FA Cup semi-finals, there is a need to step up - but they will be confident their winning streak doesn't stop here.

Statistically speaking, the odds are in Man United's favour: they are nine places above opponents Brighton in the WSL, although this tournament has shown that anything can happen.

The men might be the most successful club in English football, but for the women, this could be where it all begins.

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This weekend is Women's Football Weekend on the talkSPORT network as we bring you live commentary of Tottenham vs Arsenal and Chelsea vs Man City!