West Brom Women star facing six months out after suffering serious leg injury
The Welsh forward joined the Baggies from Cardiff City ahead of the 2024/25 campaign
West Bromwich Albion Women forward Rhianne Oakley is facing up to six months on the sidelines after suffering a serious leg injury.
The 25-year-old sustained a fracture-dislocation of her left tibia during Albion's 4-1 FA Women's National League Northern Premier Division victory over Boldmere St Michaels at the Alexander Stadium last Wednesday.
Oakley underwent surgery over the weekend, with the club confirming the operation was successful.
Albion's director of medical, Tony Strudwick, has revealed the forward is expected to be out of action for between three and six months as she begins her recovery.
"Rhianne sustained a fracture-dislocation of her tibia in her left leg during last Wednesday's game with Boldmere," he said. "She had an operation over the weekend that went well. Her expected timeline for recovery and a return to action is three to six months.
"I know she has appreciated the kind messages from her team-mates and supporters since suffering the injury, and she will, of course, continue to have the full support of everyone at the football club as we work to get her back on the pitch."
Oakley's absence will come as a significant blow to Siobhan Hodgetts-Still's side, who have made an impressive start to the campaign and sit second in the Northern Premier Division.
Albion have won seven of their opening nine league matches, losing just twice, and sit only one point behind leaders Rugby Borough.
The Welsh forward joined the Baggies from Cardiff City ahead of the 2024/25 campaign, having previously represented Swansea City and Pontypridd Town.
She made an immediate impact in her debut season, scoring eight goals and earning the club's Supporters' Player of the Season award.
Oakley, who has also represented Wales at under-19 level and featured in the Women's Champions League during her time with Cardiff, had been hoping to build on that success this term.
Ella Haughey and Milly Round dedicated their goals in Saturday’s FAWNL Cup round of 16 3-0 win at Norton & Stockton Ancients to Oakley, holding up a shirt donning the 25-year-old’s name and number to the camera on the touchline.
Albion also sent a message of support to Oakley following the injury, posting: "We're all with you, Rhi."
Comment Guidelines
Iconic Media encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.