National Teams
Ashleigh Plumptre pens heartfelt message on Paris 2024 Olympic absence
By Monsurah Olatunji
Nigeria international Ashleigh Plumptre has expressed her heartbreak over missing the upcoming 2024 Olympic Games scheduled for Paris from July 25 to August 11.
The Super Falcons defender was part of the qualifying phase but missed the final stage against South Africa due to a foot injury she suffered at her club side. The Al-Nassr star had to undergo surgery and raced against time to make the roster for the Paris Games.
Earlier this week, head coach Randy Waldrum announced his squad as Nigeria returns to the women’s football event after a 16-year absence.
Since switching allegiance to represent the Super Falcons, the former Leicester City and England international has been an integral part of the team setup.
She was a top performer for Nigeria at the 2023 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, where they crashed out on penalties against England in the round of 16.
The 26-year-old took to social media to express her heartbreak as her recuperation did not go as quickly as she had hoped.
“Timings haven’t quite aligned to be in contention for the Olympic roster – a dream I’ve held since I can remember,” Plumptre shared on her social pages.
“Since having my surgery, I’ve worked in every area of life to put myself in the best position to recover, but one thing that’s come from this is learning how to listen to my body properly!
“While on a personal note, it’s a shame to miss out. I cannot put into words my excitement and pride in knowing I’ll be watching my @nigeriasuperfalcons girls representing this flag on the Olympic stage. Go well, girls! Naija to the world.”
