‘Heartbroken’: Matildas midfielder suffers serious injury ahead of World Cup

Matildas midfielder Elise Kellond-Knight appears set to miss the FIFA Women’s World Cup after rupturing her left Achilles tendon.

Kellond-Knight was injured at a Melbourne Victory training session on Friday.

Scans revealed the extent of the injury, which has ruled her out of the remainder of the A-League Women season.

Kellond-Knight — who played for the Matildas during their recent Cup of Nations tournament victory — would be considered long odds to be passed fit for the World Cup, which begins in July and will be co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand.

“We are all heartbroken and completely devastated for Elise with this latest injury news,” Matildas coach Tony Gustavsson said in a statement.

“KK is a fantastic person firstly and has been a complete professional in working diligently to return to the pitch.

“Her comeback to the Matildas in 2022 added invaluable passion, insight, mentorship and experience over the recent camps.”

Melbourne Victory director of football John Didulica said the club was devastated by the injury news.

“Elise is one of the most incredible people and professionals in the game and we are all heartbroken for her,” Didulica said.

“Melbourne Victory will continue to support Elise through this challenge and have no doubt her experience can support both our A-League Women’s team as we head towards the finals series and the Matildas as they chase history.”

The Victory said Kellond-Knight would undergo a surgical consult “to determine the best process” for her recovery.