Phoenix defender Marisa Van Der Meer (right) competes for the ball in an A League match against Melbourne City. Photo: www.photosport.nz
The Phoenix women's football side has suffered another major injury blow, losing defender Marisa van der Meer for the rest of the A-League season.
Van der Meer who is currently in Colombia with the New Zealand women's side ruptured knee ligaments while warming up for the side's game against Colombia at the weekend.
She now faces nine to 12 months of rehabilitation.
The injury blow comes just four weeks after midfielder Grace Wisnewski suffered a similar injury ruling her out of the season too.
Chloe Knott Photo: Photosport
Adding to the injury woes too is the sudden departure of midfielder Chloe Knott who quit her contract last week.
Knott was quoted in a club statement as saying the financial pressures of trying to manage a fulltime job and a football career were proving too much.
Although Knott later said financial struggles were not the only reason behind her departure saying she no longer felt fullfilled in the current team environment.
"After being here for the start of this season, it's become clear my values no longer align with the club or current management," Knott said.
"It is important for me to be in an environment that prioritises honesty, authenticity and a genuine care for every individual and their development on and off the field.
"I want to work in an environment where all employees feel valued and respected at all ages and in every phase of their career, where their commitment and sacrifice is understood and appreciated, without needing to ask for it first," she said.
The Phoenix women currently sit third on the A-League ladder with four wins from six games.
This weekend they host fourth placed Melbourne Victory.
