Emma Hayes says women's football stars have 'come to expect' abuse as USWNT coach responds to homophobic comments aimed at Chelsea star Sam Kerr and Kristie Mewis following baby announcement

Chelsea star Kerr and West Ham ace Mewis revealed they were set to become parents last week and while most people congratulated them, a minority directed abuse to the couple on social media. Now, United States women's national team boss Hayes has weighed in on this matter, while praising her former Blues player Kerr.

She told reporters: "I think Sam's going to be an amazing mum. When Harry [Hayes' son] used to come to the training ground, he always gravitated towards Sam with her natural warmth. It's not shocking to hear the abuse they suffered, but I know she's tough enough to move past that and she's not someone who expects an easy ride with anything. I just think, for those of us in the women's game, we've just come to expect that. It doesn't make it right, and it is unacceptable, but one where I know Sam will manage that and put all her energy into making sure her and Kristie hopefully go through the pregnancy with no bother and bring their baby into the world."

Hayes is one of many to offer words of comfort to Kerr and Mewis off the back of the abuse they received. Chelsea team-mate Millie Bright and head coach Sonia Bompastor also condemned those responsible.

Hayes, who swapped Chelsea for the USWNT this summer, is in London ahead of her team's clash with Sarina Wiegman's England at Wembley on Saturday.