FIFA are funding a new study exploring the role of the menstrual cycle on ACL injuries in women's football.

Led by Kingston University, the year-long study will examine a problem plaguing the game in recent years, with several high-profile footballers — including Sam Kerr and Vivianne Miedema — falling victim. Previous research has demonstrated how women's players are two-to-six times more likely to experience the injury.

The study is set to start in June and will feature clubs from all levels of the game, including Chelsea and Fulham. It comes as as FIFA increase their investment in exploring injuries in women's football, with Kingston's bid supported by their 'Research Scholarship Scheme'.

A blood analysis will look at hormone concentrations and then be cross-referenced with performance data to explore correlations between the menstrual cycle and a player's risk of an ACL injury. A series of tests based on common causes of ACL injuries — from landings and fast changes of direction — will also be conducted.

Experts from the university's sports department hope to create a pathway for players to tackle this issue, whether it's reducing training loads or an adaptation of an individual's training plans. Not only will this have a seismic impact on the highest level of the women's game, but it will also help support clubs who have limited financial resources.

More information about the study can be found by visiting Kingston University's website.