Olympic long jump champion Greg Rutherford has been forced to delay starting his 2014 season due to injury.
After winning gold at London 2012, Rutherford endured a difficult 2013 as he struggled with injury – failing to make the final at the World Championships in Moscow.
And his injury woes have struck again as Rutherford has been forced to withdraw from this weekend’s Glasgow International Match.
But he insists the injury is not too serious, and has set his sights on competing at the Indoor Grand Prix in Birmingham next month.
“Unfortunately I have to withdraw from the Glasgow International Match,” he said. “It's nothing bad and it has been a tough call to make, but I know it's the right decision in order not to risk a serious injury.
“I’d like to apologise to all my fans and people who were looking forward to see me this weekend, but I'm sure it'll be an exciting and special event regardless.
"I wish all my British team mates and competitors good luck. My appearance in the long jump at the Indoor Grand Prix next month won't be in danger.
“Even if I can't make it to Glasgow this indoor season, I'll be back this summer and will fight for the long jump title at the Commonwealth Games.”
© Sportsbeat 2014