The news that Sydney FC captain Natalie Tobin will miss the rest of the season after tearing her ACL has come as a significant blow to the defending champions.
Less than 10 minutes into the second half of Saturday night’s Sydney Derby victory over the Wanderers, the 27-year-old was inconsolable as she was carried off the field on a stretcher, and following scans confirmed the worst.
Tobin, who was playing in her 101st career match for the club, will now face a period of between eight to twelve months on the sidelines.
“It’s devastating to miss the season, especially as it has only just started,” Tobin said.
“I’m still coming to terms with it but the support I’ve had from the girls, from the club, the coaching staff and the fans, as well as family and friends has been amazing.
“I’m focusing on the positives and I will still be around the girls giving them every bit of energy and support that I can throughout the season.
To make matters worse for the defending champions, Tobin’s injury highlights a distinct lack of cover at centre back, highlighted by coach Ante Juric’s inability to name a recognised defender on the bench for their Round One clash with Western Sydney.
“It’s a big blow for Natalie and for us as she is a fantastic leader and we will need to adapt on the field without her now,” Juric said.
“I know she will be back stronger than ever before, as she is a resilient person who can overcome big hurdles.
“That is the type of character she is, and we will give her every bit of support that we can.”
Last year, the Sky Blues’ captain missed just two games and contributed a goal in Sydney FC’s victory over Western United in the Liberty A-League Grand Final to the club’s second Premiership and Championship double.
In her absence, Princess Ibini will lead the club as captain.
