Super Falcons defender, Ashleigh Plumptre, has resumed training with Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad after several months out with a foot injury.
The 28-year-old underwent surgery in March following the injury, which kept her sidelined for an extended period and ruled her out of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.
Her absence was a setback for Nigeria ahead of the tournament, with the Super Falcons eventually bowing out in the quarter-finals under head coach Justine Madugu.
The nine-time African champions also missed out on qualification for the inter-confederation playoffs, ending their campaign on a disappointing note.
Plumptre’s return to training is expected to boost both Al-Ittihad and Nigeria as she works her way back to full fitness.
The versatile defender has become an important part of the Super Falcons, capable of playing both at centre-back and left-back.
Her availability will provide Madugu with another experienced option in defence as Nigeria prepares for its next international assignments.
However, Plumptre is likely to be eased back into competitive football after her lengthy absence.
She will first focus on rebuilding her fitness before returning to full match action.
The defender will be hoping for an injury-free season with Al-Ittihad and a return to the Super Falcons setup when she is fully ready for international duty.
