Huge injury scare for Chelsea ahead of new WSL season as Erin Cuthbert spotted on crutches after botched tackle in NJ/NY Gotham clash

The reigning Women's Super League champions Chelsea registered a convincing 3-1 win over NWSL's Gotham FC courtesy of a brace from Johanna Rytting Kaneryd and a strike from Aggie Beever-Jones. However, they were dealt a major injury blow during the friendly clash as Cuthbert was spotted on crutches following a botched tackle in the game.

The incident happened early in the game and the 26-year-old was subbed off in the 21st minute as Sophie Ingle took her place. It remains to be seen the graveness of her injury and if she will miss the early stages of the upcoming 2024-25 season.

Cuthbert, who joined the West London club in 2017, had an impressive outing last season as she managed to score eight goals in 35 appearances across all competitions and played an important role in the club winning the record-extending seventh WSL title.

Sonia Bompastor's side will play two more friendly matches against Arsenal and Feyenoord in pre-season before appearing in their season opener against Aston Villa on September 20.