by Callum Ellis
DEALING with a lengthy injury lay off can be the most frustrating period of an athlete’s career, as Cardiff City Ladies midfielder Chloe Lloyd knows all too well.
It has been a long road to recovery for the University of South Wales Strength and Conditioning graduate who sustained an anterior cruciate ligament injury last year, leaving her sidelined for 11 months.
She returned to action for her club side during their 3-0 triumph over Queens Park Rangers in January, and has now been recalled to Jayne Ludlow’s Wales squad.
The 22-year-old has not featured for her country since a friendly against Holland B in the summer of 2017, but could be in line to win her third cap if she features against the Czech Republic later this week.
Wales return to Rodney Parade for the first time since narrowly missing out on a place at the World Cup at the hands of England in August.
Lloyd underwent surgery in February 2018, and admitted it was an eagerly awaited return to playing.
“At first, it was frustrating,” said Lloyd as she recalled a tough period in her career.
“As I was the fittest I have ever been before my injury, it came at a really bad time. However, I am a very patient person and I was more than determined to be back.
“I was taking each stage of rehab very carefully. I knew about this kind of injury and I knew what I had to do to be back.”
She added: “It was the best feeling returning to play again.”
Honoured to be back with this group 👇🏻🏴 let’s get to work!! https://t.co/szvSO6lxp4
— Chloe Lloyd (@chloelloyd_8) March 29, 2019
Lloyd started off the World Cup campaign in manager Ludlow’s plans, but the injury setback forced her to watch on from the stands.
She did, however, follow the squad closely as they came within touching distance of sealing qualification for the tournament in France later this year. The preparations ahead of the upcoming Euro 2021 campaign will now continue against the Czechs in Newport on Thursday.
And the midfielder insists the campaign was just the start for this group of players.
“I was a squad member in the recent World Cup qualifiers until my injury came around. The girls did so well and I supported them at every game.
“It was heartbreaking to see the team lose to England. But it’s the only the beginning for this group.”
Lloyd’s team-mate Loren Dykes, who she continues to learn from, was a consistent performer throughout the previous campaign and is set to secure her 100th cap this week.
Ludlow has already confirmed the experienced Bristol City defender will be in the starting line-up, as she joins Jess Fishlock in becoming Wales’ second centurion.
“Loren is a real leader on and off the pitch. She is the most humble person I know,” said Lloyd.
“It’s a massive honour for herself and the country and we’re all extremely proud of her.
“She’s so approachable and has a bundle of experience. She always helps out the youngsters and that is priceless in my eyes.”
