Ashleigh Plumptre celebrates return from surgery with Al-Ittihad victory

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Ashleigh Plumptre with Match ball after hat-trick on Al Ittihad debut

Super Falcons star Ashleigh Plumptre has expressed her joy at returning to competitive football after a long injury layoff. SportsRation reports.

The 26-year-old defender made her comeback in Al-Ittihad’s 1-0 win against Al-Ula in the Saudi Women’s Premier League, coming on as a second-half substitute.

Plumptre, who had been sidelined for over six months following surgery on her right foot, was thrilled to finally be back on the pitch. After the match, she took to social media to share her excitement with Al-Ittihad fans.

“Hey, Etihad fans! I’m so happy to be back. Even happier with the win and the clean sheet,” Plumptre said in a post-match video. “Thanks for all your support.”

Earlier this year, Al-Ittihad confirmed that Plumptre underwent surgery to address a foot injury that had troubled her for months. The club announced that she would follow a rehabilitation programme to ensure her full recovery.

Reflecting on her surgery, Plumptre expressed gratitude to the medical team and her supporters. “Thank you to everyone at @ittihadladiesclub and Dr Pieter D’Hooge at @aspetar for guiding me through my first surgery,” she wrote on social media. “It’s been a long time coming trying to find answers, but I’m so grateful to be at this stage.”

Plumptre also extended her appreciation to her Super Falcons teammates and Nigerian fans for their patience during her absence. “To my @nigeriasuperfalcons teammates and Nigerian fans, thank you for your understanding when I couldn’t be with you. I’ve fought as hard as I could with this pain. I can’t wait to return healthy and play alongside you all again.”

Due to the injury, Plumptre missed Nigeria’s participation in the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. However, her return to club action with Al-Ittihad offers hope for both her and the Super Falcons as she regains match fitness.

Plumptre signed for Al-Ittihad in 2023 and has since become an integral part of the team. Her successful comeback marks an important milestone in her journey back to full fitness, as she looks to make an impact in the Saudi Women’s Premier League and with the Nigerian national team.