Melbourne City’s emphatic 5-0 win over Adelaide United on Sunday night was soured by a potentially serious ankle injury to youngster Nathaniel Atkinson.
The fullback was stretchered off in the 75th minute after landing awkwardly on his leg following a corner.
Early reports suggested Atkinson may have suffered a fracture but City boss Warren Joyce is hopeful the injury isn’t as bad as first feared.
“We don’t think it’s a break, that’s the latest report from the hospital but obviously we’ll have to wait until we hear it for sure,” Joyce said post-match.
“It’s good news that it’s not that [a break], but it could be ligaments, it could be anything.”
Teammate Dario Vidosic also offered words of support for the talented youngster.
“It’s a bit of a sour note with Nathaniel,” he told Fox Sports.
“Our prayers are with him and we hope he’s alright and it’s nothing serious.
“He was in a bit of pain so I”ll give all of this away and the goals. I’ll still take a 1-0 win and I hope Nathaniel will be with us this week.”
Wishing this young talented player all the best after getting injured. #Nathaniel pic.twitter.com/FRCEfsWx9P
— Tim Cahill AO (@Tim_Cahill) January 21, 2018
Prayers with young Nathaniel. Hoping it isn't serious. He's in great care @MelbourneCity
— tarek elrich®™ (@elrich11) January 21, 2018
Thoughts and prayers are with Nathaniel Atkinson @MelbourneCity awful to see any player in that amount of discomfort.
— Tara Rushton (@TaraRushton) January 21, 2018
