Skrtel feared career was over after horror injury
The Slovakian was expected to be out for the season but a specialist in London told him on Tuesday that he could expect to start training again in eight weeks’ time.
“I can’t remember exactly what happened, but the pain was enormous,” Skrtel was quoted as telling Slovakian daily newspaper Sport following the incident late on in Liverpool’s dramatic 3-2 win at the City of Manchester Stadium.
“I have never suffered such a strong pain before. It was terrible. But I remained conscious and they gave me oxygen to calm the pain. I was shocked and I thought that was the end. Now it is much better but the pain is still there.”
Skrtel had made an impressive start to the season alongside Jamie Carragher at the heart of Liverpool’s defence, and the team had begun the season strongly, sitting second in the Premier League behind leaders Chelsea on goal difference and with two wins from two in their Champions League group.
Skrtel was relieved that the prognosis was not as bad as it was first feared.
“The specialist told me that this was the best thing that could have happened to me,” he said.
“I almost ripped the ligament fully and if I had done that, I would have been out for eight months, which is basically the rest of the season. But now, as it will heal naturally, after eight weeks I should be able to start to train again.’’
The 23-year-old former Zenit St Petersburg centre-back will spend the next four weeks on crutches before starting on the comeback trail.
“Of course I am not pleased about my situation but injuries are a part of football,’’ he added.
“I am looking forward and not feeling sorry for myself. I want to get better as soon as possible but I can’t rush the recovery. Every day, I will undergo special rehab and visit the doctors to get better soon.”
The news will come as a great relief to Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez, who had praised Skrtel’s defensive performances this season.
“He was playing very well and we were very pleased with him so it is a real pity that he has got injured now,” said the Spaniard.
“But we also know that it could have been worse and the fact that he could be back for our games towards the end of the year is positive for us. Martin has a very strong character and he trains hard so I am sure that when he does come back he will be the same player as before he got injured.’’
LIVERPOOL boss Rafa Benitez has dismissed rumours linking him with a move to Juventus as he waits on a new deal at Anfield.
Benitez has just over 18 months to run on his current contract, alerting a number of clubs across Europe to the Spaniard’s possible availability.
Juventus have been credited with an interest in Benitez as doubts grow over the long-term future of Claudio Ranieri at the Turin giants.
Liverpool co-owner Tom Hicks declared at the start of the year that he was keen to sort out a contract extension for Benitez, but as yet no new deal has been in the offing.
Benitez is not worried about the situation and is hoping he can sort out a long-term deal so that he can continue his plans on Merseyside.
“I’m not really worried about the situation at the moment,” Benitez said. “I’m really pleased here and I have two more years left on my contract, so right now I’m just trying to do my job as best as I can.
“I’ve always said I want to stay here for many years, that hasn’t changed.’’
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