Katie Archibald has been ruled out of the World Track Cycling Championships due to injury ©Getty Images

Katie Archibald has been forced to withdraw from Britain’s squad for the International Cycling Union (UCI) World Track Cycling Championships after failing to recover from a knee injury.

The Scot was part of the women’s team pursuit squad which claimed the world title in 2014, but revealed last month she had ruptured her posterior cruciate ligament in December and was undergoing rehabilitation.

Although the 21-year-old had recovered sufficiently to be initially named in the squad, British Cycling have opted to withdraw her from selection to focus on Rio 2016.

“Katie has been working so hard to get herself back to full fitness for the championships,” said Shane Sutton, British Cycling technical director.

“Rehab has been going really well but we were running out of time so we've taken the decision to focus on Rio.

“I’m disappointed for Katie and disappointed for the team but the squad has a lot of depth so we’re still confident we can show the crowds something special in London next week.”

Archibald’s withdrawal could enable World Championship debutant Emily Nelson to take her place in Britain’s women’s team pursuit line-up.

Double Olympic champion Laura Trott, Joanna Rowsell Shand, Elinor Barker and Ciara Horne are also vying for the four spots.

Ed Clancy will be targeting winning a sixth world title in front of a home crowd
Ed Clancy will be targeting winning a sixth world title in front of a home crowd ©Getty Images

Double Olympic men’s team pursuit champion Ed Clancy has recovered from injury, however, to take his place in the British squad.

The 30-year-old is looking to claim his sixth world title at the Championships, due to take place  from March 2 until 6, and believes the competition for the men’s team pursuit title will prove fierce.

“Our last team pursuit title was four years ago ahead of the Australians and New Zealanders in Melbourne,” said Clancy.

“We’re determined to go out fighting to be on the top step of the winner’s podium next week, especially as we’re on home soil.

“The team pursuit is one of track cycling’s most iconic events so there’s going to be some great racing.”

More than350 cyclists are due to compete at the Championships.

France's François Pervis is due to be one of the stars names as he aims to defend his men’s time trial and keirin titles.

Australia’s Anna Meares, the most decorated women’s world champion after earning her 11th title last year, will be expected to clash with Germany’s Kristina Vogel in the women’s sprint competitions.