Sunderland Ladies' Abby Holmes is considering taking legal action against Kelly Smith after the Arsenal star accused her opponent of deliberately injuring her.

Smith was ruled out for four months after Holmes's tackle caused torn ankle ligaments during a match last month.

The England forward later accused Holmes of intending to cause "serious damage" and stated that the Sunderland player should not be competing in the Women's Super League.

The North-East outfit reported Smith to the Football Association, who issued the forward with a warning, but Holmes is considering taking further action against her opponent.

A statement from the club read: "Abby strongly refutes claims that there was any malicious intent in the challenge or that it was pre-meditated. Furthermore, she is taking legal advice regarding the nature of the remarks and as such it would be inappropriate to comment further at the present time."

Smith required surgery after suffering the injury.