NewsZara Shaw to begin rehabilitation for ACL injury

The youngster was with the England U19s squad this week in qualifying for the European Championship when she suffered the setback.

A subsequent scan has revealed an anterior cruciate ligament injury. Shaw will now undergo a specialist review to plan next steps in her treatment.

The Liverpool-born player has been a regular for her country at youth levels and was a standout performer at the U17 World Cup in November as England reached the semi-finals.

An Academy graduate for the Reds, she has been a regular part of the senior squad this season, making eight appearances and scoring a spectacular first goal against Newcastle United in the League Cup.

Interim head coach Amber Whiteley said: “It’s difficult to find the words to express how much disappointment everyone feels for Zara at the moment.

“Zara has a maturity beyond her years and she is a well-loved and respected member of our team. She is one of our own.

“We are fortunate to have a brilliant medical team and a special group of players who will no doubt give Zara the best support possible. We will all be with her every step of the way.”