Six hundred and thirty-seven days can change everything. For West Ham United Women’s midfielder Jess Ziu, that stretch of time became a journey defined by setbacks, determination, and ultimately, a long-awaited return.
On 16 July 2024, Ziu lined up for the Republic of Ireland as they secured a 3–1 win over France in their UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 qualifier. It was another proud moment for the Hammers’ No.16—but it would be the last time she represented her country for nearly two years.Just a month later, the midfielder suffered the second anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury of her career, ruling her out of action until September 2025. Her comeback came during a loan spell at Bristol City, where she started in a Barclays Women’s Super League 2 fixture against Birmingham City.
Although she had made her return at club level, Ziu still had one major goal in mind—pulling on the Republic of Ireland shirt once again.
She came close in October 2025 when she was included in her first international camp since the injury, but did not feature in matches against Belgium in the UEFA Women’s Nations League.
Her chance finally arrived in April during the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifying camp. Ziu made a substitute appearance in a 3–2 victory over Poland in Gdansk, before being included in the squad again for the return fixture at the Aviva Stadium, where friends and family were watching from the stands.
“It felt incredible to be back playing for my country,” she said. “It’s always special, but after being out for so long, it meant even more this time.
“Knowing my family and friends were watching, and having the support of my teammates and staff, made it unforgettable.
“When Carla Ward called me over to get ready, I was a bit surprised, but you always have to be prepared. I was just really happy to get the chance.”
Ziu admitted the moment came quickly, leaving little time to overthink. “I didn’t really get nervous—I was just focused on doing my job. The team helped me settle straight away, and it was great to contribute in such an important win.”
Even when she didn’t get on the pitch in the following match, Ziu remained proud to be part of the squad. “There’s something unique about international football. Whether you play or not, you feel part of something special. I love representing Ireland.”
After the match at the Aviva Stadium, she shared a memorable moment with Poland goalkeeper Kinga Szemik, exchanging shirts and receiving words of encouragement. Seeing her family in the crowd added to what she described as a special occasion.
“The support I received afterwards was overwhelming,” she added. “It made me realise how significant the moment was.”
During her loan spell at Bristol City, Ziu was joined by fellow West Ham player Camila Sáez, who played an important role in her recovery.
“Having Cami there made a big difference,” Ziu said. “She had already supported me through my rehab, so it was great to have someone familiar around.
“Getting back on the pitch against Birmingham was a huge milestone—it’s what I’d been working towards for so long. The team at Bristol City were brilliant and helped me every step of the way.”
Now back training with West Ham under Rita Guarino, Ziu is focused on staying fit and contributing wherever possible as the season nears its end. A return to competitive action in claret and blue would mark her first appearance for the club since May 2024.
“My main priority is staying healthy,” she explained. “Of course, I’d love to get some minutes, but right now I’m focused on training hard and supporting the team.
“If that opportunity doesn’t come, I’ll turn my attention to the next Ireland camp. We’ve also got the World Sevens coming up, which should be a really exciting experience.”
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