Roebuck’s on road to recovery after stroke

MANCHESTER CITY and England goalkeeper Ellie Roebuck has revealed she is recovering from a stroke.

Roebuck has not played a competitive game this season and was last named on the bench for a League Cup clash against Manchester United on January 24.

In an emotional statement posted on social media, Roebuck, who has 11 caps for the Lionesses, said: ‘I feel like now is the right time to share what’s been happening lately.

‘Unfortunately, having not felt well for a little while, I had some tests and it was discovered that I had suffered a left occipital infarct. Thankfully, there is no lasting damage to my brain function or vision.

‘I have had many weeks of follow-up tests, specialist appointments, and with the support of the medical team at the club I’m on the road to recovery.

‘It’s great to be back with the girls, working on my rehab and more importantly feeling back to being normal Ellie. It’s been a really tough time, but with the support of my family, I’m now really positive and excited for my return.

‘Life can throw unexpected challenges at you and if this year has taught me anything, it’s that I’m strong and will give it all for the thing I love most.’

A left occipital infarct is a type of stroke caused by a blood clot clogging an artery in the brain.

The Sheffield-born Roebuck, a Super League winner in her first full season with Manchester City in 2016, has been named on the bench by boss Gareth Taylor for nine matches across all competitions this season.

The 24-year-old last played for England in February 2023 and was an unused member of the European Championshipwinning squad of 2022 and last year’s group who reached the World Cup final.