England midfielder Jordan Henderson has rejoined the national team in Kansas City after undergoing surgery for a fractured left forearm sustained during post-match celebrations following England's 3-2 victory over Mexico in the World Cup Round of 16. The injury occurred when Henderson slipped while climbing over an advertising barrier at Mexico City's Azteca Stadium. Despite being ruled out of playing for the remainder of the tournament, Henderson remains part of manager Thomas Tuchel's squad in a leadership role as England prepares for their quarterfinal match against Norway on Saturday in Miami.
Henderson shared an update on Instagram on Wednesday, posting: 'Surgery done! Now let's get ready for the big one Saturday!' He also thanked the medical staff at the Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute, where the procedure was performed. The injury required oxygen assistance and a stretcher for Henderson, who was later confirmed to have a 'smashed' forearm by his father, Brian Henderson, in an interview with the Daily Mail.
The match against Mexico set a viewership record in the U.S., with 44.8 million viewers, according to Yahoo Sports. England's victory was highlighted by goals from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane, while Mexico's Raúl Jiménez scored a late penalty. The game was one of the most-watched soccer telecasts in U.S. history, though the final numbers for the U.S. vs. Belgium match (a 4-1 loss for the U.S.) could surpass it. England now faces Norway, led by Erling Haaland, in a highly anticipated quarterfinal.
Other key World Cup matchups include France vs. Morocco and Argentina vs. Switzerland, with France currently favored to win the tournament. England's campaign continues despite Henderson's absence, with the midfielder committed to supporting the team through the remainder of the competition.