England and Arsenal forward suffers major World Cup setback after ACL injury

England and Arsenal forward Beth Mead could miss next year’s World Cup after suffering a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament.

The 27-year-old sustained the injury in the Gunners’ WSL loss to Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium.

An Arsenal statement said: "We can confirm that Beth Mead suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in our match against Manchester United at Emirates Stadium on Saturday.

"Unfortunately, this means that Beth is set for an extended period on the sidelines. She will see a surgeon in the coming days, after which further details on timescales will be established.

"Everyone at the club will now be supporting Beth and working hard to get her back on the pitch as soon as possible."

Mead could miss World Cup

Mead, who won the Golden Boot and Player of the Tournament as England won last summer’s Euro 2022, will see a surgeon in the coming days, after which further details on timescales will be established.

According to the NHS, recovering from an ACL knee surgery can take up to a year, which means Mead will be in a race against time to make next year’s World Cup.

England travel to Australia and New Zealand next summer to take part in the competition, which begins on July 20.

Mead is a key player for the Lionesses. She won her 50th cap during England’s 4-0 friendly win over Japan earlier this month and has racked up 29 goals at international level.

The Gunners will also feel Mead’s absence. Arsenal are second in the WSL after seven games, with the England star having scored three goals and provided a team-high four assists.