Every professional footballer faces challenges. West Ham Women’s midfielder Jess Ziu, who is only 22 years old, has had to show remarkable strength and resilience, having fought her way back from two ACL injuries.

Ziu joined West Ham in March 2022. Four games in to her first season as a Hammer, the Republic of Ireland international suffered an ACL injury at the end of 2022, keeping her out of action for more than a year.

After an operation and undergoing a rehab programme, the midfielder made her return to the pitch and made 19 appearances in all competitions for the Hammers last season. Last summer, the 22 year old was rewarded for her hard work and determination in overcoming such a significant injury with a new contract.

Going into this season, just as Rehanne Skinner’s side were about to begin their pre season preparations, Ziu was dealt another unexpected blow as she sustained a second ACL injury in a behind closed doors friendly.

Remembering back to that moment, Ziu said to the clubs Official Website: “Straight away I knew it was my ACL again. I remember not being able to walk off the pitch and just how hard that was for me.”

The Republic of Ireland international discussed how she had less of a wait for her second operation. She knew that going into a second lengthy spell of recovery and rehabilitation would require even more mental strength, the Hammers midfielder was determined to come back “better than ever”.

That second ACL injury was eight months ago now. Ziu is progressing well in her recovery, having got back out on the grass at the end of February. Despite the setbacks she’s faced, Ziu has never lost the enjoyment of the sport she loves: “When I returned (after the first ACL injury), I’ll never forget the feeling of enjoying my football because you really don’t know what state you’re going to leave the pitch in.”

“From then on, I’ve always just enjoyed it. If we lose, of course I’m upset about it, but I’m really grateful to be able to walk off the pitch with my own two legs.” added Ziu.

After a tough and incredibly challenging last couple of seasons, Ziu now has a completely different perspective on football, one clearly filled with a huge amount of gratitude and love for having the opportunity to play.

“Since I did my knee and have been out for so long, I’ve found a love (of football) again. I never fell out of love with football, but I’ve taken everything in my stride that when I hit the pitch, I told myself I’m happy to be here playing.”