Man Utd defender George set to miss rest of season after ACL injury

Manchester United have confirmed Gabby George suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury against Leicester and is now set to miss the rest of the season.

Defender George, who re-joined United from Everton last month, limped off in the ninth minute of Sunday's 1-1 draw with the Foxes at Leigh Sports Village.

The 26-year-old has gone in for surgery on Tuesday morning ahead of an extended period on the sidelines.

Red Devils boss Marc Skinner told MUTV: "It's an ACL. There are different levels of ACLs. She goes in today for an operation.

"I would always put 12 months on this sort of injury. She could come back sooner but I would rather work back.

"That's the sensible way to prepare, working backwards. 

"We will support her and give her the best treatment and we will make sure that she comes back from that stronger and even better than she was before."

George is the latest in a growing number of ACL injuries currently plaguing the women's game.

United midfielder Emma Watson and Scotland team-mate Caroline Weir ruptured their ACLs while on international last month.

Arsenal duo Leah Williamson and Vivianne Miedema are also both out after ACL injuries, while Beth Mead has just returned to action after 11 months.

Skinner added: "It's an horrific injury for a footballer because it's just a period of time out.

"It's obviously devastating news for her. I've spoken to Gabby, she's in good spirits."

George will be absent as United travel to face Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday night in the second leg of their Women's Champions League qualifying second-round tie.

The European rivals played out a 1-1 draw in the first leg as Mevline Malard cancelled out Tabitha Chawinga's opener.

Ahead of the game at the Parc des Princes, Skinner added: "I asked Gabby if there was anything we could do and she said 'Can you win in Paris?' and we will certainly try our best.

"It's going to be two really good teams going against each other. 

"I think it will be a wonderful moment, I really want to win it for our fans because I'd love to give them a European tour."