Ashleigh Plumptre has begun a rehabilitation programme in the United Kingdom following successful surgery on her left foot.

The Al-Ittihad Ladies Club defender shared her first update on Sunday via Instagram, reflecting on her time back home and the support she has received.

“The most beautiful week back home for surgery,” she wrote.

“Grateful to be supported and surrounded by my @ittihadladiesclub family during this chapter and looking forward to the opportunity for more personal and collective growth – the journey.”

Accompanying the post were collages showing her injury recovery across various locations in the UK, including visits to the Tate Modern art gallery in London, as well as images with her family on crutches and in a wheelchair.

The Saudi Pro League side had earlier confirmed her operation, stating that Plumptre “has successfully undergone surgery on her left foot” and will now begin a treatment and rehabilitation programme under the supervision of the club’s medical team as she prepares to return to training.

Plumptre’s surgery marks a crucial stage in her recovery from a persistent foot problem that has kept her sidelined.

The club’s medical staff expect her to be out for several months while she follows a structured rehabilitation plan, representing a frustrating setback for the Super Falcons star.

This is her second significant injury since moving to Saudi Arabia, following a lengthy layoff in March 2024 that curtailed what had been an impressive debut season, in which she scored eight goals in 12 appearances.

The setback also forced the 27-year-old to miss the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, denying her the chance to anchor Nigeria’s defence on the world stage. Despite the challenges, she remains focused on a rigorous recovery plan, aiming to reach peak fitness in time for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled for July.