Canada Soccer awaiting word on injury to veteran goalkeeper Erin McLeod

TORONTO – The Canadian Soccer Association is awaiting word on the extent of an injury that forced veteran goalkeeper Erin McLeod off the field in Sunday’s final of an international women’s soccer tournament in Natal, Brazil.

McLeod, who has won 122 caps for Canada, landed awkwardly after contesting a ball high in the air with Brazilian star Marta. McLeod hit Marta’s back as she came down and landed on her right leg.

The injury forced McLeod, walking gingerly with help from training staff, to leave in the 33rd minute. Stephanie Labbe finished the match in her place.

The CSA offered a partial update after the game.

“Erin is doing well. She’s at the hotel and will be assessed over the coming days. Thanks for the concern!” the association tweeted.

McLeod’s spouse, Ella Masar McLeod, also took to Twitter.

“We appreciate all the love and support guys! @erinmcleod18 has n always will find a way. We’ll let u know once we know more,she is a trooper!” she wrote.

Canadian international defender Lauren Sesselmann, not part of the Brazil squad, sent her best wishes via social media.

“Proud of this team,proud of the battle & fight they always bring. Great 2 see some of the youngsters shine. And praying 4 u @erinmcleod18” she tweeted.

The Canadian team was in transit Monday. A CSA spokesman said there was no immediate injury update.

The Canadian women head to Texas for the CONCACAF Olympic qualifying tournament in February.

McLeod, a key member of the Canadian squad, has already come back from two anterior cruciate ligament surgeries, as well as shoulder surgery.

Canadian team officials dodged a bullet when captain and talisman Christine Sinclair was injured in August, playing for the Portland Thorns late in the NWSL season. It turned out to be a left ankle and Achilles tendon strain and the 32-year-old from Burnaby, B.C., returned to play in the Brazil tournament.

McLeod, a 32-year-old from Edmonton who plays club soccer for the Houston Dash, is an accomplished ‘keeper with 40 international shutouts. And she is a leader who often speaks for the team.

McLeod is also a Renaissance woman who paints and is part-owner of the Peau de Loup clothing line.