ISL 2017: CK Vineeth confirms groin injury; rubbishes claims of unwillingness to play against ex-team
What’s the Story?
CK Vineeth announced on his Twitter handle today that he suffered a groin injury on Saturday, which forced him out of the clash between Kerala Blasters and Bengaluru FC the next day.
In Case You Didn’t Know
Vineeth had joined Bengaluru FC in 2014 and won the I-League with them in his debut season. Certain sections of fans suspected that he missed this match without any prior information as he did not wish to play against his former side.
The Heart of the Matter
According to his Twitter thread, Vineeth had felt the injury a day prior to the Sunday match-up and as the press conference had been held before, information couldn’t be passed on to the media. He further said that his doctors had informed him that the MRI scans had revealed the damage and also told him that it wouldn’t be possible for him to recover in time for the tie, despite his best efforts.
He reiterated that as a professional footballer, he continuously strives to perform for his team with everything he has and it doesn’t affect his attitude in case he has to line up against a former side.
What’s Next?
The midfield man has reassured that he had begun rehabilitation for the injury, although preliminary examinations seem to indicate that he will be on the sidelines for a considerable amount of time. However, he did express hope of being able to join the fervent supporters in the stands soon to cheer his side on as they hope for a turnaround of fortunes under David James, who took over from Rene Meulensteen earlier today.
Author’s Take
Footballers are thorough professionals. While their respect and love for their previous clubs may linger, it doesn’t affect their performance or their will to play for their new team. Globally, one always sees stars play against their old sides and teammates, often giving beyond their full capacity to shine in such games.
In a number cases, fans of both sides respect the player and give him due appreciation (remember when Cristiano Ronaldo scored the crucial goal for Real Madrid against Manchester United at Old Trafford but was still clapped on by both sets of supporters?).
Similarly, Indian fans need to have more faith in their team’s players and be supportive in difficult times (like injuries) rather than throw aspersions of this sort on the footballer’s character.