Super Falcons defender Ashleigh Plumptre has expressed her disappointment at missing out on the Olympics after failing to recover from an injury ahead of the games.
The Al Ittihad Ladies star underwent an operation in April and has been on the mend since then. Unfortunately, she will now miss out on the games entirely.
Earlier this week, Super Falcons coach Randy Waldrum released his final squad for the games.
Ashleigh Plumptre to miss Olympics due to injury
Plumptre, one of the mainstays of the team who shone at the FIFA World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, was notably absent from the list.
She took to her X account (formerly known as Twitter) to reveal that despite her best efforts, she has been unable to recover from the injury in time for the Olympics.
“Timings haven’t quite aligned to be in contention for the Olympics roster—a dream I have held since I can remember,” she said.
“Since having my surgery, I have worked in every area of life to put myself in the best position to recover, but one thing that is coming from this is learning how to listen to my body properly.”
Plumptre drums up support for Super Falcons
The 26-year-old also mentioned that despite the disappointment of missing out on the Olympics, she is excited about the prospects of her team-mates (the Falcons) showcasing their talent at the games.
“While on a personal note it is a shame to miss out, I cannot put words to my excitement and pride in knowing I will be watching my girls representing this flag on the Olympic stage,” the former Leicester City defender stated.
“Go well girls, Naija to the world.”
Ashleigh Plumptre was part of the team that helped Nigeria qualify for the Olympics after seeing off the likes of Cape Verde, Cameroon and South Africa to clinch the ticket.
Her absence is a blow to the Super Falcons‘ defensive line, but her unwavering support will undoubtedly lift the spirits of her team-mates in France when the games begin.
