Henderson's World Cup likely over after freak arm injury celebrating England's win over Mexico

Jordan Henderson is almost certain to play no further part in the World Cup after fracturing his wrist during the post-match celebrations following England’s 3-2 victory over Mexico on Wednesday.

The experienced midfielder fell over the advertising hoardings at full-time and landed with his right arm beneath his body. He was placed on a stretcher, given oxygen, and taken to hospital in Mexico City while the rest of the squad flew back to their base in Kansas City.

Mirror chief football writer John Cross, speaking on the Make Football Great Again podcast, confirmed the severity of the situation. “It feels like it might be his World Cup over, to be honest,” Cross said. “I know it’s a wrist, a sort of arm injury which you probably get in plaster, but that early stage is going to be difficult for him. It feels as if it’s probably going to be his World Cup over. What an absolute hammer blow. He’s such a good character and person and leader — that’s absolutely devastating for him.”

England manager Thomas Tuchel had spoken to the BBC immediately after the final whistle, confirming the news. “Jordan just fell over and injured his wrist — it looks really bad,” Tuchel said. In his post-match press conference, the head coach added: “He injured his wrist, he’s gone to hospital, it’s quite a serious injury. I don’t know if there will be a procedure.”

The injury cast a shadow over what had been a remarkable England performance. The Three Lions had been reduced to ten men when Jarell Quansah was sent off in the 54th minute, yet still held on to beat Mexico 3-2, with Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham among the goalscorers. Both players paid tribute to Henderson before the injury update emerged.

Henderson had been selected by Tuchel to speak at the pre-match press conference, a clear signal of the trust the manager places in the veteran midfielder’s leadership qualities — making the timing of the injury all the more cruel.

England face Norway in the quarter-finals this Saturday. On the other side of the bracket, France will meet Morocco after victories over Paraguay and Canada respectively.