Will Smallbone has faced several significant injuries throughout his professional football career, with his ACL tear being the most severe setback. The Southampton midfielder’s journey through rehabilitation and return to competitive action demonstrates the challenges professional athletes face when dealing with serious injuries.
His most recent recovery period has seen him gradually return to training in April 2025, though his match fitness remains a work in progress.
The devastating ACL injury
Smallbone suffered a career-altering anterior cruciate ligament injury on January 16, 2021, during a Premier League match against Leicester City. ACL injuries represent one of the most serious setbacks for footballers, typically requiring extensive rehabilitation periods lasting six months or longer. The injury occurred during a routine movement, highlighting the unpredictable nature of such traumatic injuries in professional sports. Smallbone’s recovery process followed the standard medical protocol for ACL reconstruction, including initial rest, progressive rehabilitation exercises, and a carefully managed return to training activities.
The midfielder eventually returned to professional action on October 26, 2021, making his comeback appearance in an EFL Cup match against Chelsea, This marked approximately nine months of recovery time, slightly longer than the typical six-month timeline, indicating the club took a cautious approach with his rehabilitation. The extended recovery period likely aimed to ensure complete healing and minimize the risk of re-injury, a common concern with ACL reconstructions.
Recurring groin problems
Beyond his ACL troubles, Smallbone has also battled persistent groin issues throughout his career. A particularly notable incident occurred during a match against Liverpool, where he managed to score before being forced off the pitch due to groin discomfort. The timing proved especially unfortunate as it interrupted a positive performance moment for the player. This injury resulted in another absence from the squad, with Flynn Downes stepping in as his replacement during the recovery period.
Groin injuries can be particularly troublesome for midfielders due to the position’s demands for quick directional changes, explosive movements, and extensive running. The recurrent nature of Smallbone’s groin problems suggests a potential underlying biomechanical issue that the medical team has likely been addressing through specialized strengthening programs and movement pattern corrections. These types of injuries often require not just physical healing but technical adjustments to prevent recurrence.
Recent return to action
In early 2025, Smallbone made a welcome return to competitive football after another extended absence, featuring in Southampton’s Emirates FA Cup victory over Swansea. This appearance represented a significant milestone in his recovery journey and provided a psychological boost for both the player and the team. Smallbone expressed satisfaction regarding his return and the team’s progre ssion in the cup competition, indicating positive mental recovery alongside physical rehabilitation.
The midfielder’s performance in this match demonstrated encouraging signs of his recovery, though match fitness naturally takes time to rebuild after lengthy absences. Southampton’s medical and coaching staff have implemented a graduated return-to-play protocol, carefully managing his minutes to prevent overloading the previously injured areas. This cautious approach reflects contemporary best practices in sports medicine for players returning from significant injuries.
Current status and additional challenges
As of April 2025, Smallbone has returned to training sessions but was considered unlikely to feature in Southampton’s fixture against Tottenham. This indicates the club continues to take a measured approach with his reintegration into full competitive action. The medical team’s conservative strategy prioritizes long-term availability over short-term selection, recognizing the importance of complete recovery before resuming the intense physical demands of Premier League football.
Beyond his physical injuries, Smallbone has also dealt with alopecia, a condition diagnosed in 2021 during his ACL rehabilitation. This additional challenge demonstrates the comprehensive nature of professional athletes’ health management, encompassing both physical and psychological aspects. Smallbone’s appointment as an ambassador for Alopecia UK in December 2022 reflects his commitment to raising awareness about the condition while managing his own recovery process. This dual focus on personal health and advocacy work illustrates the multifaceted challenges professional footballers navigate throughout their careers.