Tobin Heath

US women's team forward Tobin Heath has minor ankle surgery

Published Jan. 4, 2018 4:26 p.m. ET

CHICAGO (AP) Tobin Heath had minor ankle surgery Thursday and is out for up to 12 weeks.

U.S. Soccer announced Heath's surgery, which will keep her out of January training camp with the U.S. women's team. Performed in Los Angeles, the procedure removed a bone growth from her right ankle.

''It's been bothering me for a while now and we tried to rehab, but I wasn't progressing so it was time to address it surgically,'' Heath said in a statement. ''I want to make sure it's not a hindrance moving forward so I can get back on the field and have great preparation for a big year ahead.''

Heath, who also plays for the National Women's Soccer League's Portland Thorns, injured her ankle in the NWSL title match between the Thorns and the North Carolina Courage in October. Portland won 1-0 for its second overall league title.

Heath was on the national team that won the 2015 Women's World Cup in Canada. The United States, ranked No. 1 in the world, is preparing to defend its title next year in France.

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Tobin Heath

Portland Thorns FC

NWSL