Chelsea star Erin Cuthbert hospitalised after lengthy stoppage for head injury

Erin Cuthbert was taken to hospital with a head injury in Scotland Women’s 3-2 win over China Women on Tuesday night.

The Chelsea star was stretchered off after catching a shoulder to the head in the closing stages of the game.

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It caused a lengthy stoppage at the Estadio Municipal de Chain and Cuthbert was seen wearing a neck brace as she left the field.

Speaking after the game, Scotland boss Melissa Andreatta said: “It happened so fast.

“I just saw a collision and then everyone saw what happened from there.

“She’s off to hospital now. We’ll just wait to hear for updates.”

Meanwhile, Scotland’s social media team said: “We’re all with you, Erin.”

Cuthbert is one of the most decorated players in Scottish football history, having won 19 major trophies with Chelsea.

In a glittering eight-year career with the Blues, the 27-year-old has 61 goals in 262 matches.

At international level, Cuthbert has 24 goals in 81 appearances for Scotland.

The incident soured what had been a positive night for the Scots, who were 3-0 up inside 15 minutes.

Crystal Palace star Kirsty Howat scored two spectacular goals on her first start for the nation.

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However, Scotland were forced to cling on for the closing stages after China pulled two goals back.

Reflecting on the game, Scotland manager Andreatta added: “We started fast and maximised the chances we created, then the momentum sort of swung towards China.

“But I think we regrouped towards the latter stages of the half and talked about a few things at half-time.

“We started the second half strongly, had a penalty and poor Kirsty [Howat] going for a third missed it.

“If we get that the pressure sort of releases a little bit, but then they go and score. That makes it super interesting, which is Scottish apparently.

“What we did was show really good character. The way we defended was excellent to deny them chances from all those crosses.

“Looking ahead, that’s what you’re going to need in tight games and tournament football.”