Manchester City's Khadija Shaw Out for Season with Foot Injury

Manchester City striker Khadija 'Bunny' Shaw, the current top scorer in the Women's Super League (WSL) with 21 goals in 18 games, has been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a foot injury suffered in City's 5-0 victory over West Ham last weekend. Shaw was seen leaving the match on crutches and wearing a protective boot. Scans have confirmed the injury, which will keep her sidelined for City's final three matches of the campaign.

The injury is a massive blow to City's championship aspirations, as they currently lead the league by three points over champions Chelsea, who have a game in hand. Shaw, who became City's all-time leading goalscorer with 102 goals in 122 games in March, netted twice in the first half against West Ham before being replaced at halftime.

Manchester City manager Gareth Taylor acknowledged the significant loss of Shaw, saying the demands on elite women's footballers have contributed to the team's injury troubles, with other key players like Jill Roord and Ellie Roebuck also sidelined. Taylor expressed confidence in City's other attacking players to step up in Shaw's absence, but acknowledged the unique qualities the Jamaican international brings to the team.

Why this matters: Shaw's injury could have a substantial effect on the WSL title race, as Manchester City aims to win their first league title since 2016. The loss of their top scorer and record goalscorer puts more pressure on City's remaining attackers to deliver in the crucial final matches of the season.

Despite the setback, Shaw is still on course to claim the league's Golden Boot award, having also become the first player in WSL history to have a goal contribution in 10 consecutive matches. Manchester City will now have to rely on players like Lauren Hemp and Chloe Kelly to fill the void left by Shaw as they navigate tough fixtures against Bristol City, Arsenal, and Aston Villa in their pursuit of the title.

Key Takeaways

• Manchester City striker Khadija 'Bunny' Shaw ruled out for season due to foot injury.
• Shaw is the WSL's top scorer with 21 goals in 18 games, a major blow to City's title bid.
• City lead the league by 3 points over Chelsea, who have a game in hand.
• Shaw became City's all-time leading goalscorer in March with 102 goals in 122 games.
• City must rely on other attackers like Hemp and Kelly to fill Shaw's void in title race.