Arsenal’s Lia Walti has withdrawn from the Swiss national team ahead of their upcoming friendly matches against Germany and England, due to an abscess which has reportedly landed her in hospital.
The 31-year-old midfielder, who had recently made her comeback for Switzerland during the match against Australia in October, will now be absent for two important matches scheduled for the 29th November against Germany, and the 3rd December against England.
Speaking on Instagram, Walti said, “This is a reminder to always tune in to your body. I listened to mine, paid attention to what felt different, and trusted my instincts to get it checked. What seemed small turned out to be an abscess, but because we caught it early, I got the help I needed. I feel so lucky it was caught in time. Please take care of yourself and never ignore the little signs!”
The Swiss team had already suffered another setback with the loss of Naomi Luyet, the 18-year-old forward who had been ruled out due to a pelvic injury.
Luyet had made an impact with her winning goal against France last month, and her absence further complicates Switzerland’s preparations. FC Basel‘s Aurélie Csillag has been called up as a replacement.
Luana Bühler is also unavailable for selection. Noemi Ivelj has stepped in to replace her.
In good news for Arsenal fans, Lotte Wubben-Moy has been called up to the England squad for their upcoming matches against the USA and Switzerland.
Wubben-Moy will be part of the squad facing the USA at Wembley Stadium on Saturday, 30th November, and then Switzerland at Bramall Lane on Tuesday, 3rd December.
The centre-back’s inclusion comes after Manchester United‘s Maya Le Tissier was ruled out due to concussion, which occurred during Sunday’s Women’s Super League match.
Le Tissier is now undergoing a return to play concussion protocol.
In other news, Arsenal Women are set to play newly promoted Crystal Palace at the Mangata Pay UK Stadium, Meadow Park, on Sunday, January 19, with kick-off at 2:00pm. The match is included in the Arsenal Women Season Ticket but not in the Home Advantage Pack+ or Home Advantage Pack.
Tickets go on general sale on Thursday, December 5 at 2:00pm, with a £2.00 booking fee per ticket. Ticket exchange is available for Season Ticket Holders. Concessionary tickets are available for juniors, young adults, seniors, and supporters with disability access requirements. All children, including babies, require their own ticket and must be accompanied by an adult.