Wrexham AFC's goalkeeper Danny Ward suffers a serious injury, facing surgery that could keep him off the pitch for a significant time, impacting both club and national team.
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Wrexham AFC Faces Major Blow as Danny Ward Set for Surgery
Wrexham AFC is confronting a significant setback as goalkeeper Danny Ward prepares for surgery due to a dislocated elbow. The injury transpired during the team’s 2-0 victory over Millwall in the Championship last weekend.
This incident raises concerns for both Wrexham and the Welsh national team, as Ward was called up for an upcoming World Cup qualifier.
Incident Details
Ward sustained the injury at The New Den while attempting to claim a long ball, leading to a painful landing.
The incident escalated when he collided with Millwall defender Jake Cooper, resulting in Ward briefly losing consciousness. He received on-field treatment for an extended period before being stretchered off and taken to the hospital for further evaluation.
Manager’s Statement and Implications
Manager Phil Parkinson confirmed the seriousness of Ward’s condition, stating, “It is really bad news for us with Danny, and more importantly for himself. It is a dislocated elbow, but when you do a dislocation, you have ligament damage that needs rectifying.” Parkinson indicated that Ward would need surgery and face a considerable time away from the game.
Initially, Ward was set to join the Welsh squad for their qualifier against Kazakhstan, but the injury has forced him to withdraw. Parkinson expressed frustration over the timing, remarking, “The goalkeeping department was a problem we didn’t really need so late in the window.” The team will now look to Arthur Okonkwo, who replaced Ward at Millwall, to step up in his absence.
Wrexham’s Rising Profile
Wrexham AFC, owned by actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, has gained global attention, particularly following the success of the Disney+ documentary ‘Welcome to Wrexham’. The club has made remarkable progress, securing two consecutive promotions and becoming one of the fastest-growing teams worldwide. However, the loss of Ward is disappointing for fans rallying behind the team.
Ward was instrumental for Wrexham, starting all four games of their first Championship season in 43 years. His performances solidified his position within the club and earned him a place in the national team setup. The injury raises concerns about his future contributions to both Wrexham and Wales, as he was regarded as a key player moving forward.
Future Outlook
The timeline for Ward’s recovery remains uncertain until after the surgery. Parkinson stated, “We won’t know until he has actually done the operation and put a timescale on that, but obviously it is a serious injury and our thoughts are with Danny.” The club and fans are hopeful for a swift recovery as they prepare for the challenges ahead without their first-choice goalkeeper.
As Wrexham navigates this setback, the team’s resilience and depth will be tested in upcoming matches. With a dedicated fan base and a growing reputation, the Dragons aim to maintain their momentum in the Championship despite the challenges posed by Ward’s injury.
