England midfielder Jordan Henderson is expected to undergo surgery after a freak wrist injury suffered during celebrations following the Three Lions’ dramatic 3-2 win over Mexico in the World Cup last-16.
The 36-year-old Brentford midfielder did not play in the match but was booked on the touchline before the final whistle. Moments after England secured their place in the quarter-finals, Henderson tried to climb over an advertising board to celebrate with supporters at the Estadio Azteca and appeared to land awkwardly on his left arm.
England manager Thomas Tuchel later said the injury “looks really bad” and confirmed Henderson had been taken to hospital in Mexico City. Tuchel said: “Jordan just fell over and injured his wrist. It looks really bad. It’s a quite serious injury, and it doesn’t fit to the evening that Jordan is now not with us. The doctor told me he is in hospital.”
Henderson’s absence would be a major blow for England, who had already been forced to manage without Reece James earlier in the tournament. Reports in the wake of the incident suggested Henderson would need surgery and could miss the rest of the competition.
In the immediate aftermath, Harry Kane tried to calm concerns, saying Henderson had simply “fallen over” and that it was “something to do with his arm.”
Jude Bellingham also struck a more measured tone, saying the medical team had everything under control and urging patience until more information was available.
Henderson later broke his silence on Instagram, choosing to focus on the team’s victory despite his own injury. He wrote: “A night to remember that’s for sure! What an incredible performance against all the different challenges,” and added: “So proud to be a part of this special team. Thanks for all the support, another big one Saturday.”
Several of his teammates responded with messages of support, including Declan Rice, who wrote “Some man,” and Morgan Rogers, who commented, “What a guy.”
Marc Guehi also offered an update after the match, saying Henderson was recovering well and that the squad were relieved the injury did not appear even worse.
“Hendo’s good, man. Hendo’s in a better place than he was yesterday, and it was obviously scary for him and his family and for everyone else, but we’re just glad that he’s on the road to speedy recovery.”
England are now preparing for their quarter-final meeting with Norway in Miami, but Henderson’s likely absence means Tuchel may have to reshuffle his squad for the remainder of the tournament. Henderson is said to want to remain with the group in a support role if possible while he recovers.
Quarter-final – Match 97: France vs Morocco, kick-off 4pm – Los Angeles, US
Quarter-final – Match 98: Match 91 winners vs Match 92 winners, kick-off 3pm – Miami, US
Quarter-final – Match 99: Norway vs England, kick-off 5pm – Miami, US
Quarter-final – Match 100: Match 95 winners vs Match 96 winners, kick-off 9pm – Kansas City, US
Semi-final – Match 101: Match 97 winners vs Match 98 winners, kick-off 3pm – Arlington, US
Semi-final – Match 102: Match 99 winners vs Match 100 winners, kick-off 3pm – Atlanta, US
Third Place Playoff – Match 103: Match 101 losers vs Match 102 losers, kick-off 5pm – Miami, US
Final – Match 104: Match 101 winners vs Match 102 winners, kick-off 3pm – New Jersey, US