Erin Cuthbert spoke of her happiness and relief after making her first appearance of the season during Scotland’s impressive 2-0 victory over the Czech Republic.
The away win in the opening round of the Women’s World Cup play-offs puts Scotland in a strong position ahead of Tuesday’s return match in Paisley. Sweden are expected to await the team that advances.
Cuthbert, the 28-year-old Chelsea captain, has not yet played for her club this season because of a knee injury, but she returned as a substitute in Pardubice. Fellow replacement Claire Emslie produced an excellent finish for Scotland’s second goal after captain Caroline Weir had opened the scoring in spectacular fashion.
“It feels wonderful,” Cuthbert said after the match.
“It has been an extremely long summer. Returning to the pitch for my country is always special, and after suffering a serious injury, I will never treat that opportunity lightly.
“I am simply delighted to be playing football again. There is such a sense of relief after dealing with so much doubt and stress. You wonder whether you will return at the same level, how you will perform and whether your knee will hold up. All of those concerns go through your mind.
“The injury was serious. I spent most of a month using crutches and wearing a brace, and I lost a considerable amount of muscle. Much of my summer was devoted to rebuilding my strength.
“It has been an incredibly difficult road back.”
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