Keira Walsh returns to England training after knee injury
- Keira Walsh returns to training following knee injury against Denmark
- Initial ACL fears allayed by scans revealing less serious problem
- Unclear if midfielder will be available to face Nigeria in the last 16
England midfielder Keira Walsh has returned to team training following a knee injury, providing a significant boost to the Lionesses at the ongoing Women's World Cup.
Walsh's injury occurred during England's Group D victory over Denmark last month, with initial fears of a ruptured ACL - the problem that already kept Beth Mead and Leah Williamson out of the tournament. But the 26-year-old is now expected to be fit before the World Cup finishes.
England's next challenge is facing Nigeria in the last 16 on Monday in Brisbane and all 23 players, including Walsh, were present for training at Central Coast Stadium on Sunday. Sarina Wiegman later told ITV that staff will now monitor Walsh to see how her body reacts to the session.
The verdict from the England boss is "if she's fit, she's available" to feature against Nigeria.
All 23 players are out for training today at Central Coast Stadium. 💪 pic.twitter.com/PUo3e7gUvq
— Lionesses (@Lionesses) August 6, 2023
Walsh had mouthed "I've done my knee" and was taken off the pitch on a stretcher during the Denmark game. However, scans quickly revealed there was no serious damage and she has remained with the squad throughout.
In their final Group D match against China, England secured a convincing 6-1 win, though Sarina Wiegman opted to adjust their formation due to Walsh's absence.
Last summer, she made headlines by moving to Barcelona in a women's world record transfer fee and played a crucial role in England's Euro 2022 title triumph, featuring in every game for the champions.
READ THE LATEST LIONESSES WOMEN'S WORLD CUP 2023 NEWS HERE
feed