On 18 December, the High Court delivered judgment in favour of former Premier League and Championship footballer Sylvan Ebanks-Blake in his medical negligence claim against leading orthopaedic surgeon Professor James Calder. The ruling marks a significant development in a case that has attracted considerable attention within both the sporting and legal communities.

Andrew Benzeval, an injury partner at Stewarts and solicitor for Mr Ebanks-Blake, commented:

“We are pleased with today’s decision, which allows the case to move forward to the quantum stage. Our priority remains supporting our client as he seeks to rebuild his life beyond this injury. Mr Ebanks-Blake has requested privacy at this time, and we ask that this is respected.”

 

Background to the claim

Professional footballer Ebanks-Blake sustained a serious injury in April 2013 when he fractured his left leg while playing for Wolverhampton Wanderers in a match against Birmingham City. Following the injury, he underwent surgery performed by Professor Calder, a highly regarded specialist in sports-related orthopaedic procedures.

The claim centred on allegations that the surgical intervention to the ankle brought about symptoms and accelerated the onset of osteoarthritis in Ebanks-Blake’s ankle. According to his legal team, the harm caused by that intervention curtailed his ability to continue playing professional football at the highest level and ultimately brought his career to a premature end.

The court proceedings

Professor Calder denied liability in full, leading to a contested trial held in July 2025. Simeon Maskrey KC of 7 Bedford Row represented Mr Ebanks-Blake. After reviewing extensive medical evidence and expert testimony, the High Court concluded that the surgeon was liable for the harm suffered by Ebanks-Blake. This decision underscores the importance of accountability in cases where medical treatment has life-changing consequences for patients, particularly those whose livelihoods depend on physical performance.

Next steps: quantum trial

The judgment handed down this week resolves the question of liability but does not determine the level of compensation. The case will now proceed to a separate quantum trial, where the court will assess the appropriate damages to be awarded. This phase will consider the financial and personal impact of the injury, including the loss of earnings and the long-term effects on Ebanks-Blake’s quality of life.

Broader implications

This ruling highlights the critical role of specialist legal representation in complex medical negligence claims. For professional athletes, the consequences of surgical errors can be devastating, affecting not only their careers but also their long-term health and wellbeing. The case serves as a reminder of the standards expected in elite sports medicine and the legal remedies available when those standards are not met.

This story was reported by Sky News, BBC and Daily Mail.