Emily Brown
Football fans are praying for the quick recovery of England football captain Leah Williamson after she suffered a devastating injury just months before the Women's World Cup.
The footballer, who plays for Arsenal, was playing in a match against Manchester United on Wednesday (19 April) when she collapsed in pain just 12 minutes into the game.
She quickly signalled for treatment and was taken off the pitch with the help of medical staff.
Shortly after the game, the official Twitter account for Arsenal FC confirmed news of Williamson's injury, writing: "We can confirm that Leah Williamson suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament on Wednesday night. We're all right behind you, @leahcwilliamson."
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The team has also released a statement on Williamson's condition, announcing that she'll have to take some time off the pitch while she recovers.
"We can confirm that Leah Williamson suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in our Barclays Women’s Super League match against Manchester United on Wednesday night," the statement reads.
"Leah was substituted in the first half of the game at Leigh Sports Village and underwent further assessment on Thursday to determine the extent of the injury.
"Leah will now begin a period of rehabilitation and is set for an extended spell on the sidelines. She will undergo surgery in due course.
"Everyone at Arsenal will be supporting Leah closely throughout the journey ahead and we would ask that her privacy is respected at this time."
Williamson's injury is concerning for the England women's team as it comes just a few months before the Women's World Cup is set to kick off, with England's opening World Cup match scheduled for 22 July.
Arsenal manager Jonas Eidevall said after Wednesday's match there was no news on how long Williamson would have to sit out for, saying: "I don't have too much information on it. Of course, it's not good that she has to come off."
Fans have sent their well-wishes to Williamson in the wake of the news, with one fan writing: "Comeback stronger @leahcwilliamson ! Best of luck in your recovery Leah! So sorry to hear about your injury the whole @Arsenal & @ArsenalWFC are behind you on your recovery!"
Williamson herself does not appear to have commented on the injury at the time of writing, though she has previously expressed her excitement for the upcoming tournament as she told Standard Sport the Lionesses had 'done enough to capture people's attention'.