The duo made their first appearances for City in 2025 to help the Blues grind out a 1-0 win at Leicester, closing the gap on the top three to four points in the process.
Both players had a hand in Jess Park’s decisive strike, with Greenwood winning back possession to start the move and Hemp grabbing the assist.
And Cushing highlighted the instant impact both players had on the team ahead of next week’s crucial WSL showdown with Manchester United at Old Trafford.
He said: “[Having Alex and Lauren back was] A huge boost, one to get our captain [Alex Greenwood] back because she’s the leader of our dressing room and the person who drives this team on.
MATCH REPORT: LEICESTER 0-1 CITY
“It’s been tough for her to have to do it from the side, now she can do it from the middle where she’s at her best with the armband on.
“You could see the calmness she brings to the team, so good with the ball and, like I said, a leader.
“And to put Lauren Hemp in, it doesn’t surprise me she was involved in the goal and she had many moments.
“For us now it’s about pushing these players to make sure that they’re really ready to contribute for these last two games.”
Hear the boss’ thoughts in full via the video above...
