Goalkeeper Karen Bardsley has withdrawn from the Team GB women’s squad due to injury.
The Manchester City keeper was recently injured while on loan at OL Reign and a decision on her replacement in the GB squad will be made at a later date.
Bardsley told mancity.com: “After a difficult road back to fitness and form, being selected for Tokyo felt like the greatest achievement.
“Then, to be forced to withdraw through injury so close to the Games feels devastatingly cruel. Regardless of the situation, I’ll do whatever I can to help my teammates and Team GB every step along the way. I wish nothing but success for everyone.”
GB head coach Hege Riise added: “Losing Karen is a big blow for us – but more importantly for her. She has been an incredible international goalkeeper for many years and her presence in the squad would have also helped the younger players in the group.
“Of course, this is football and this means an opportunity for someone else to take. The group are very positive about the challenge ahead and can’t wait to get started.”
