The problems for Arsenal women football club continue to increase due to yet another ACL injury. This time it is their 25 year old Dutch midfielder who suffered a serious injury. Arsenal have confirmed that Victoria Pelova will be sidelined for an extended period of time. Over the time a lot of Arsenal female players suffered ACL injuries and is begining to become a concern for the club.
Victoria Pelova’s injury has been confirmed by the club on Arsenal’s official website. The club has stated that it is a critical injury and will require a surgery.
“We can confirm that Victoria Pelova suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament while playing for the Netherlands against Finland on Tuesday 4 June” – Official announcement by Arsenal about Pelova’s injury.
When did Arsenal star Pelova suffered this injury
Victoria Pelova was playing for Dutch national team on 4th June. Netherlands were taking on Finland in UEFA women’s championship qualifiers in Tampere, Finland. In the 12th minute of game Pelova’s knee hyperextended causing her a lot of trouble. As a result she was substituted due to ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). After several tests it was confirmed that the injury was serious and would require surgery. This causes Pelova to be out of action for an extended period.
ACL injuries becoming a serious concern
Victoria Pelova is not the first to suffer ACL injury in the recent time. A lot of Arsenal superstars have faced the similar situation. Vivianne Miedema, Beth Mead, Leah Williamson, Laura Wienroither and Teyah Goldie have all faced ACL injury before Pelova. In women’s game ACL injury is becoming an serious concern as it is occuring on a frequent basis.
According to research, it has been revealed that female football stars are 2-6 times more likely to suffer ACL injury than the male stars. However there is no specific cause that can tell us why this is the case. In April a three year project was sanctioned to look deep into this matter. The professional football association, Fifpro, Nike and Leeds Beckett University are looking in this matter together hoping to find a possible solution.
Dr. Katrine Olkholm Kryger took time to speak about this issue. Dr. Katrine is senior lecturer in sports medicine in St. Mary University, London and specialises in football. According to doctor the discussions about why ACL injuries are more in females have been based on two factors. One is sex related which includes the anatomy and hormones. The other factor is gender related which includes how female players are raised and managed as compared to male players.
What will the in Arsenal’s plans to fill the void caused by Pelova’s departure
Victoria Pelova has been very important player for Arsenal. The Dutch international played all of the 22 league games this season and started 20 of those. Pelova managed to score 2 goals along with providing 5 assists for Gunners. Pelova’s absence will leave a void which would be hard to fill. Her injury will force Arsenal manager Jonas Eidevall to take some crucial decisions.
Lia Walti, who has been out of the squad for several months could be finally seen making her way back. However Eidevall will look for other options in the upcoming market. Kathrine Kuhl who joined Everton on loan will look at this opportunity as a hope to earn her place back in the team. We could also see Kyra Cooney Cross introducing herself in an attempt to replace Pelova. Kyra Cross who is 22 years old joined the Gunners last summer and has played 14 league games in her first season.
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