Orlando City striker Dom Dwyer undergoes knee surgery, out 4-6 months
Orlando City SC forward Dom Dwyer had knee surgery on Friday to repair a partial patella tendon tear in his left knee.
The designated player is expected to miss at least four to six months while recovering from the injury, which means he is unlikely to see the pitch again in 2020.
After starting in the first two matches of the MLS is Back Tournament, Dwyer exited the bubble on July 25 to receive an MRI after suffering an injury during the team’s win over New York City FC.
Dwyer posted a video of himself on Instagram Friday night celebrating the Lions’ penalty kick victory over LAFC. In the video, his left leg was elevated and in a knee brace while he cheered on teammates in the locker room via FaceTime.
He had previously shared an emotional message with fans on social media on Thursday, the day before his surgery.
“Unfortunately injuries are a part of the game and something I’ve been battling for awhile,” Dwyer wrote. “To my teammates and to the fans, I’m sorry. My desire remains the same to help bring success to this club. I’ll be working with our medical team to come back stronger and better. Bring it home, boys.”
Dwyer’s teammates offered supportive responses, with captain Nani and others wishing the striker a swift recovery.
The striker missed the first two matches of the regular season due to a lower body injury. Coach Oscar Pareja had hoped the season shutdown would give Dwyer time to slowly recover and return to the pitch at full strength.
Dwyer’s surgery was performed by Dr. Daryl Osbahr, the Orlando Health chief of sports medicine and leading team physician for the club.
This article first appeared on OrlandoSentinel.com. Email Julia Poe at jpoe@orlandosentinel.com.
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