Chelsea Women have confirmed Sophie Ingle sustained an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in the club’s pre-season match with Feneyoord.
In an official statement, Chelsea also said that, following an assessment by the club’s medical team and a knee specialist, Ingle will undergo surgery before beginning her rehabilitation.
The 33-year-old, who is also captain of Wales, has been with the Blues since 2018, when she returned for a second stint at the club.
She has since won 11 trophies with the all-conquering Women’s Super League champions, and has also played more games than any player in the league.
The news comes as a big blow to new Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor with the transfer window closed, and the new WSL season starting on Friday night.