Liverpool FC Women have encountered a rough start to the WSL season with only one win in their first five matches. The team will now have to face an additional challenge as star striker Sophie Roman Haug is set to be sidelined for the next 4-6 weeks due to an ankle injury sustained during a recent match against Manchester City, as announced by manager Matt Beard.
Beard expressed his disappointment over Roman Haug’s absence, stating, “Unfortunately she is going to be out for the next few, maybe the next four to six, weeks.” He explained that she is currently in a protective boot due to an ankle and foot problem, making her unavailable for the upcoming games. In her place, Beard will have players like Cornelia Kapocs, Leanne Kiernan, and Mia Enderby to partner with rising star Olivia Smith.
Despite this setback, there are some positive updates on the injury front for Liverpool FC Women. Defender Grace Fisk made her season debut before the international break, and Ceri Holland has returned to the squad after representing Wales. Beard highlighted the importance of managing the workload of players like Holland, who recently played 120 minutes for her national team. The coaching staff has adjusted the training sessions to prevent overtraining and potential injuries.
Moreover, the team will now have goalkeeper Teagan Micah back in the matchday squad after a period of absence. Beard confirmed that Micah is fully fit and has completed a week of training, making her available for selection in the upcoming matches. This news comes as a relief for the team, especially after having to play matches without a backup goalkeeper on the bench.
As Liverpool FC Women prepare to face Aston Villa, Beard and the rest of the coaching staff are focused on managing the players’ fitness levels and ensuring a strong performance on the pitch. With key players returning from injury and new faces stepping up to fill the void, the team is determined to overcome this challenging period and turn their season around.