Statements
(Operation in Barcelona) "They had to operate on my Achilles tendon, as I was suffering from a semi-partial rupture, following months of growth and recuperation. The doctors said that the quickest way for me to return to full fitness was for them to operate. It was a fairly simple procedure, and doctors think I’ll be out of action for four months; however this is just an estimate, it might be less than this, or a bit longer.”
(Various injuries) "A lot has been said about the injuries, but I can clarify that they were two different injuries, the first was a sesamoid fracture, which meant I was unable to play for four months. When I returned, I suffered another injury altogether, which we thought was the soleus, but it turned out to be the tendon.”
(Inactivity) "It’s been really tough, the worst part not being able to do what I love. It’s been nearly nine months now since I’ve been unable to play football. I’ve always tried to be the best, and done everything possible to return to the pitch, having two physiotherapy sessions a day…but we needed to do what every footballer dreads, and that’s operate. With regards to my recovery, I can’t specify a date, according to what Doctor Cougat has said. However the operation went well and I haven’t had any post-surgery problems.
(Recovery) "The only thing I can do now is undertake the pre-season on my own, in individual training, when I’ve recovered. We’ll take extra precautions to ensure that I can return to top level football, and train every day without any further problems.”
(Crutches) “The doctor said that I need to stay on crutches for three to four weeks, and then we’ll see how I get on.”
(End of career) ”No, I’m a very strong person, and despite my injuries I will never give up. It’s just a test for me to prove to myself that I can overcome this. This is the most important thing for me to focus on, I know it’s difficult, but I’ve never though about ending my career. Unexpected things like this happen, and we just need to get on with it.”
(Message to the fans) “I’d like to thank all the fans since I arrived here, their love and support has been amazing. I’m so grateful for all the messages of support on Twitter, and the only thing I can say is that I’m trying my best to get back on the pitch. The Club has achieved their dream of qualifying for the Champions League, so I hope I’ll be fit and ready to play.”
(Operation) “I’ve been asked why they didn’t operate before, but surgery was always a last resort, when there was nothing else that could be done. We waited as long as we could as a precaution.”
(Anecdote) “I was using normal crutches, which were really hurting my hands. I then saw the King was using much more comfortable crutches, so I got the same ones.”