Kelly Smith: 'Tackle could have ended my career'
Wednesday 13 May 2015 15:36, UK
Kelly Smith has hit out at Sunderland Ladies defender Abby Holmes for the tackle which she says could have ended her career.
The Arsenal Ladies player-coach suffered three torn ankle ligaments when she was on the receiving end of the tackle after coming on as a substitute in the 4-1 win on April 26.
Holmes was sent off for the challenge and Smith has since undergone surgery on her damaged ankle.
The 36-year-old, who retired from international football in February as England Women’s record goalscorer, says the tackle would have scuppered any chance she may have had of playing at this summer’s World Cup.
"The operation went well and after two weeks in plaster, then longer in a boot and then a process of rehab, I hope to be fully fit in three to four months' time," Smith wrote on Kicca.
"Right now, though, all I can think about is the tackle that ended my season and could have ended my career. And, if I hadn't retired from international football, it would have definitely ended my World Cup this summer.
"Those type of tackles end careers. Does she really want to end someone's career? She's clearly not good enough to be playing at this level and while she gets a three-match ban I, in effect, get a 15-game ban in the league as well as cup games on top.
"Twice before I have been the victim of a seriously bad challenge, once in America and once playing for England against France. Both resulted in broken legs and some serious mental repercussions."
Arsenal have confirmed Smith will begin a rehabilitation programme with the medical team and will be working towards a return before the end of the season.
The Gunners are unbeaten in the league in 2015 and sit second in the table with 12 points from six matches.
Smith's performances at club level have been recognised this season, she was one of six nominees for the PFA Women’s Player of the Year; an award won by Chelsea Ladies’ Ji So-Yun in April.
