Ashleigh Plumptre, recently crowned Best Player of The Month in the Saudi Women’s League, has been consistently absent from the Super Falcons squad since June. Interim coach Justin Maduguhas clarified this puzzling decision, citing concerns over the player’s frequent injuries. Despite her stellar performances and dual awards in the Saudi league, Plumptre has been omitted from the national team during the last two FIFA windows.
Madugu explained, “Ashleigh has been having a lot of injuries. She has been picking some knocks, and she has not fully recovered. That is just the truth about it, and she needed some rest and a break from the national team engagement so that she can recover fully, but she is still part of the team.”
Acknowledging Plumptre’s potential contribution, Madugu confirmed that she would be reinstated once fully recovered, emphasizing her importance to the squad. The Super Falcons, 11-time Africa Women Cup of Nations champions, are set to face Cape Verde, with fans hoping for Plumptre’s return and significant impact. The coach’s decision raises questions about the team’s strategy, especially with crucial Olympic qualification ties on the horizon, as expressed by fans eagerly anticipating the clash against Cameroon.