Team GB star Sam Ward has vowed to do everything he can to play again despite losing most of the sight in his left eye.
Ward, 28, was struck in the face by a ball during an Olympic qualifying match against Malaysia on November 3 and underwent surgery 10 days later to reconstruct his cheek.
“Over the last week I have received advice from three separate eye consultants,” Ward said in a Great Britain Hockey statement.
“They have all told me that I have suffered damage to the retina of my left eye and that this damage is partly irreversible.
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(Image: samuel_ward13/Instagram)
(Image: samuel_ward13/Instagram)
“I may get some sight back, but this won’t be a quick process, and whether it will be sufficient for me to get back to playing international hockey only time will tell.
“It is a tough pill to swallow but, as people know, I am not one to give up easily and I will do everything I can to make myself available for selection for Tokyo.”
Ward revealed the extent of his injuries on social media, including a scar running the width of his head.
(Image: samuel_ward13/Instagram)
Performance director Ed Barney said: “Sam has suffered a very serious injury.
“Our focus is on supporting Sam to the best possible extent and ensuring that he has access to the best medical provision and wider support.
“The players and staff wish Sam well during this challenging period.”
Ward will be hoping to recover in time for the Tokyo Olympics as Great Britain go for a fourth gold medal.
