National defender Radanfah Abu Bakr is hoping to be fit for the start of the T&T Pro League in a few weeks but is uncertain as to which club he will represent.
Abu Bakr has been sidelined for 13 months after suffering a stress fracture of the fifth metatarsal in his right foot in a Pro League League encounter while playing for Joe Public against Tobago United on May 15 at the Dwight Yorke Stadium. Since then he has undergone surgery and rigorous rehab.
“After an initial false diagnosis of six weeks, a specialist reviewed it and anticipated that after surgery, I could be out for up to a year because of the nature & severity of the injury. Unfortunately he was spot on as the incident occurred over year ago,” Abu Bakr stated.
“I’ve since spent a lot of time in the pool & gym. It’s gone beyond just rehab as well as I’ve done significant strength & conditioning exercises as well as spin & yoga.
My intensity has been gradually increasing as I ease myself back into full training,” added the ex-Swansea City player. He sees the injury as a major setback but is committed to making a comeback.
“It definitely was a setback because I’m not getting any younger and I missed a season worth of playing time and the opportunity to improve and develop my game.
But the injury has strengthened my determination and made me more determined to succeed. My hunger, desire & enthusiasm towards the game are now greater than ever,” Abu Bakr ended.