Manchester United midfielder Hinata Miyazawa has undergone successful surgery after fracturing an ankle.
Miyazawa’s injury occurred while on international duty with Japan at the beginning of December.
She did not play in either of United’s final two Women’s Super League games before the winter break.
The 24-year-old won the Golden Boot at this summer’s Women’s World Cup and has featured in eight league matches since joining United in September.
A United statement on Tuesday said the surgery went well and Miyazawa had “begun her rehabilitation with the support of our medical team”.
Miyazawa posted an upbeat message on Instagram, writing: “I will come back stronger. I will do my best to show you my play as soon as possible.”
The Red Devils are fourth in the league, seven points behind leaders Chelsea, having lost to Liverpool in the year’s final round of fixtures on Sunday.
