Thompson ruled out for remainder of 2010

Melbourne Victory striker Archie Thompson has been ruled out for the remainder of 2010, with an MRI scan today confirming the Qantas Socceroo has ruptured the anterior cruciate and medial ligaments in his left knee.

Melbourne Victory striker Archie Thompson has been ruled out for the remainder of 2010, with an MRI scan today confirming the Qantas Socceroo has ruptured the anterior cruciate and medial ligaments in his left knee.

Thompson was injured in a collision in the opening minutes of Saturday’s Hyundai A-League 2010 Grand Final against Sydney FC at Etihad Stadium and will see a knee surgeon tomorrow to assess his options.

The injury has ended Thompson’s hopes of representing Australia at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, but the striker is already focused on making a full recovery and returning to action early next year.

“I’m so disappointed,” Thompson said.

“Last night was such a big game for the club and the supporters and this year was going to be such a big year with the AFC Champions League and World Cup to come.

“But I’m going to come back bigger and stronger.

“What doesn’t kill you can only make you stronger.”

Melbourne Victory arrived in Japan today ahead of its AFC Champions League 2010 game against Kawasaki Frontale at Kawasaki Todoroki Stadium on Tuesday, with Mate Dugandzic replacing Thompson in the club’s 18-man squad.