Manchester City Women’s captain Steph Houghton is recovering well from the head injury she sustained in the 2-1 defeat to Chelsea on Sunday which required stitches.

Houghton sustained the injury in the first half and despite wanting to continue the game, the 26-year-old was forced off when she struggled to stand up.

City physiotherapist Helen Vaughan has confirmed that the England defender has not suffered any lasting effects of the collision.

“Steph seems to be making a good recovery but we are still monitoring her,” she declared. “The doctor seems relatively happy with her progress but with a head injury, you have to be absolutely sure.

“Over the last few days, we have been easing her into training. She does not have concussion which is a relief but she has a nasty cut.

“Typically, she wanted to carry on playing on Sunday — until she stood up and realised it probably wasn’t a good idea.”