Tribute paid after Wright goes above and beyond to offer ‘so much hope before and after operation’

Kayleigh McDonald, the Stoke City Women’s player at the centre of an injury saga in the spring, has paid a public tribute to Ian Wright for his support as she prepares to hand back money donated to cover a major operation.

McDonald started a GoFundMe page to pay for surgery needed after sustaining an anterior cruciate ligament injury during a 2-1 defeat against Burnley in the Women’s National League North in March. She claims she was told she would have to join an NHS waiting list to receive treatment so had tried to raise £20,000 to cover the cost of going private.

More than £11,500 was generated as her story quickly spread across the world of women’s football on social media before Stoke pledged to take care of all expenses. McDonald has now had the operation and is returning the money that was donated, with a plea to “anyone who isn’t bothered” about getting their cash back to instead donate to those sportswomen in a similar situation.

And there was a particular tribute to Wright, the Arsenal legend currently covering Euro 2024 as a television pundit, who has been a vocal supporter of women’s football in England.

McDonald said: “A special thank you goes out to Ian Wright, who has given me so much support and reassurance over the last few months. It meant the world to me that a legend like Ian reached out in a time of need which gave me so much hope before and after my operation.

“I think it’s important to mention just how much he backs women footballers on and off the pitch. I truly appreciate everything you’ve done for me, Ian, and I’m so grateful that you came across my tweet.”

McDonald joined Stoke from Blackburn Rovers last summer as the Potters’ women’s team went semi-pro for the first time. Her injury left her unable to walk or work. Wright was able to provide her with ‘breg v pulse’ equipment to aid rehabilitation and alleviate pain and swelling, which she has promised to donate to someone else in need when she has recovered.

She was able to ditch the crutches last week and is now in the process of starting to walk again.