Epidemiology of injury in English Professional Football players: A cohort study

ObjectiveTo estimate the current incidence and location of injury in English professional football.DesignProspective cohort study conducted over one competitive season (2015/16).SettingProfessional football players competing in the English Football League and National Conference.Participants243 players from 10 squads (24.3 ± 4.21 per squad).Main outcome measureInjury incidence, training and match exposure were collected in accordance with the international consensus statement on football injury epidemiology.Results473 injuries were reported. The estimated incidence of injury was, 9.11 injuries/1000 h of football related activity. There was a higher incidence of injury during match play (24.29/1000 h) compared to training (6.84/1000 h). The thigh was the most common site of injury (31.7%), muscle strains accounted for 41.2% of all injuries. The hamstrings were the most frequently strained muscle group, accounting for 39.5% of all muscle strains and 16.3% of all injuries. Moderate severity injuries (8–28 days) were the most common (44.2%).ConclusionsIncidence of injury has increased over the last 16 years with muscle strains remaining the most prevalent injury. The hamstrings remain the most commonly injured muscle group.