Manchester City and England Women's Toni Duggan out for season
Wednesday 9 September 2015 17:51, UK
Manchester City and England Women striker Toni Duggan has been ruled out for the rest of the season with an ankle injury.
The 24-year old scored in the 2-0 Continental Cup win over Liverpool Ladies last month but was withdrawn in the second half after suffering the injury.
Duggan, who missed the start of the season with a knee injury, is City's top scorer this term with nine goals in all competitions.
City's head of performance Grant Downie told the club's website: "Although this is a really disappointing setback for Toni, she has previously demonstrated great strength of character and excellent application to rehabilitation plans provided by the medical team."
Duggan has now been withdrawn from the England squad for their opening Euro 2017 qualifier against Estonia on September 21. No replacement will be called up by England head coach Mark Sampson.
Natasha Flint and Nikita Parris are in contention to deputise for Duggan on Thursday night at the Academy Stadium as City face a crunch league encounter with Liverpool Ladies.
City have a game in hand against FA WSL 1 leaders Chelsea and can reduce the gap at the top of the table to two points with a win.
