Team Northumbria captian Katarina Cooper has been ruled out for the remainder of the Netball Superleague season after she was diagnosed with an anterior cruciate ligament injury.
The New Zealander was stretchered off the court midway through TN’s Super Ten clash with Wasps last month.
It was hoped Cooper could return to action before the summer but specialists have advised that the seriousness of the injury means she cannot play again this season.
“Everyone at TN is right behind Kati at this time and we’re hoping she makes a swift and full recovery,” said Northumbria University’s Director of Netball Te Aroha Keenan.
“It’s extremely disappointing but we can’t afford dwell on the situation. I think everybody understood just how important Kati could be to TN this season but we have to look to the future.
“I am considering the options with my coaching staff but we have a number of alternatives within the squad.
“In the short term players who have been waiting for their chance will get the opportunity to step up and show us what they can do.
“Longer term we need to make the right decision and we won’t be rushed into that decision.”
Keenan has the option of replacing Cooper with another overseas player. And she will also decide whether assistant coach Vicky Burgess now has a greater role to play on court.
TN host Sirens at Sport Central on Monday. Tickets are available from venue reception.
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