Banyana Banyana skipper Janine van Wyk has confirmed she has left Danish side Fortuna Hjorring without kicking a ball after she failed to recover from a knee injury.

Van Wyk was injured in South Africa’s successful campaign at the 2019 COSAFA Women’s Championship and has not been able to recover sufficiently to be able to feature for the club this season.

“I am grateful for the opportunity that Fortuna has offered me and for giving me their continuous support and patience during my rehabilitation,” Van Wyk said in a statement.

“I have made the decision to return to South Africa to fully focus on the process of the rehab, where I will get the best possible treatment in order for me to get back to playing football again.

“I would like to thank Fortuna Hjorring for their tremendous support and guidance through this short journey at the club.

“It’s heartwarming to know that there are still clubs out there that take high interest in the players’ happiness and well-being. Wishing you all the best for the rest of the season.”

Van Wyk skippered South Africa at the 2019 FIFA World Cup in France, and also previously had a spell in the National Women’s Soccer League in the United States, where she turned out for Houston Dash.

She also has a successful club in the South African domestic structures, claiming victory in the 2019 SASOL League.