England's 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign has suffered a major blow after midfielder Jordan Henderson was ruled out for the remainder of the tournament due to a wrist injury sustained during celebrations following the Round of 16 victory over Mexico. The 36-year-old requires surgery after falling awkwardly over an advertising board at the Azteca Stadium.
Freak accident mars Mexico win
According to reports, Henderson injured his wrist while celebrating England's dramatic 3-2 win. He fell over an advertising board, landing awkwardly on his arm, and was stretchered off the pitch, given oxygen, and taken to hospital. He remained there while the rest of the squad returned to their training base in Kansas City.
England manager Thomas Tuchel confirmed the injury after the match but awaited further medical assessments. “I’m sad because Jordan injured his wrist. It’s quite serious. He’s in hospital. It doesn’t fit with the rest of the evening. I don’t know the procedure,” Tuchel said.
Henderson's World Cup record
Henderson, who has earned 91 caps for England, became the first England men's player to feature at four FIFA World Cups when he came off the bench during the group-stage match against Panama. He was an unused substitute in the victory over Mexico.
Growing injury list
Henderson's injury adds to England's growing list of fitness concerns during the tournament. Tuchel had already lost Tino Livramento before the competition began, while Reece James has missed the last two matches due to injury. Additionally, defender Jarell Quansah was sent off during the win over Mexico following a VAR review, leaving Tuchel with limited options ahead of the quarter-finals.
Quarter-final against Norway
England secured their place in the last eight with a hard-fought 3-2 victory. Jude Bellingham scored twice early in the first half before Harry Kane converted a penalty to restore England's two-goal advantage. Mexico's Raúl Jiménez also scored from the penalty spot to set up a tense finish. England will face Norway in the quarter-finals on Saturday, continuing their bid for World Cup glory without the experienced Henderson.
