Wycombe Wanderers goalkeeper suffers ACL injury ahead of new season
Wycombe Wanderers goalkeeper Matt Macey is facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in a friendly match against Yeovil Town. The 31-year-old landed awkwardly while challenging for the ball and was forced off, with scans subsequently revealing the extent of the damage.
What happened?
Macey suffered the injury in a behind-closed-doors friendly match against Yeovil Town, which Wycombe Wanderers won 3-2. The exact date of the match is not specified, but it is reported to have taken place last week.
Why it matters for Wycombe Wanderers
The injury is a bitter blow for Macey, who only arrived at Adams Park at the start of June alongside fellow goalkeeper Conor Hazard. The club has expressed support for Macey, stating "We're right behind you, Matt." However, the injury means that Mikki van Sas, whose future at the club had been uncertain, now appears set to remain at the club as Wanderers prepare for the new season.
What comes next?
Macey now requires surgery and is expected to miss a large chunk of the season, if not, all of the campaign. The recovery time for ACL injuries typically ranges from six months to a year, depending on the rehabilitation process. The injury is a significant setback for Macey, who has a long and storied career in football, having played for clubs including Bristol Rovers, Arsenal, Hibernian, Luton Town, and Portsmouth.
Wycombe Wanderers are currently 11th in League One, with 63 points from 46 games, and a goal difference of +11. They are 40 points behind leaders Lincoln. The team has scored 69 goals this season and conceded 58.
The injury to Macey is a significant blow to the team, but it also presents an opportunity for Mikki van Sas to establish himself as the second-choice goalkeeper behind Conor Hazard. Stuart Moore is expected to be the third-choice goalkeeper.
Context
Wycombe Wanderers are preparing for the new season, and the injury to Macey is a significant setback. However, the team is expected to be competitive, and the injury presents an opportunity for other players to step up and take on new roles. The team's current league standing is 11th in League One, with 63 points from 46 games, and a goal difference of +11. They are 40 points behind leaders Lincoln. The team has scored 69 goals this season and conceded 58.
