Why is Miedema not playing at the World Cup? Netherlands star misses showpiece

Arsenal superstar Miedema is the Netherlands' top goalscorer of all time, netting an incredible 52 goals in 62 games for her country.

But the Dutch will have to compete in Australia and New Zealand without their key player who scored three times on their route to the World Cup final four years ago.

The 26-year-old's absence will be noticed by all at the tournament...

Why is Miedema not playing at the World Cup?

Miedema is not at the World Cup after suffering an ACL injury.

While playing for Arsenal in the Women's Champions League in December, the Dutch star ruptured her ACL.

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She was forced to undergo surgery that month and since then, she had been recovering in hopes of being able to feature Down Under.

However, four months after picking up the injury, Miedema confirmed that it would prevent her from participating at the World Cup this summer.

She said: "No hopes. I'm definitely going to miss the World Cup, which is hard.

"But I hope to be back ready for the start of next season. I need to be realistic. Recovery is going really well. It's slow, but little steps."

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Although Miedema won't be alone watching from home as she will be joined by her partner Beth Mead who will also miss the tournament.

England star Mead also suffered an ACL rupture which ruled her out of the showpiece after she was unable to recover in time.