St. Louis Ambush midfielder Clayton “Pedaleira” Matheus will miss the remainder of the 2017-18 season due to a torn Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL), which was discovered in an MRI performed on Thursday, January 25. At the recommendation of Mercy medical and training staff, he will undergo surgery onThursday, February 1.
Matheus has appeared in 12 of the 15 games played by the Ambush this season, posting 10 goals and five assists. The current season is his first with the Ambush and in the Major Arena Soccer League (MASL). The 33-year-old is a native of Santos, Brazil and has previously played professional futsal in Brazil, Italy, Belgium and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Full recovery from ACL surgery typically takes six to nine months. Ambush CEO Shelly Clark said the team is hopeful that Matheus will be able to return to action for the 2018-19 season. “Pedaleira has been an important part of our roster and having him come back strong and healthy is a priority,” Clark said.
Head Coach Hewerton Moreira said, “This is big loss to the team because of Pedaleira’s experience and ability, but he will continue to be involved and has the full support of myself and the players. We know he will recover quickly and come back next season ready to take the field as a part of the Ambush.”
Next up for the Ambush is a return home to the Family Arena on Saturday, February 3, when they host the Kansas City Comets at 7:05 p.m. CT.
