Publications
Partners
Cape Town - Maritzburg United striker Andrea Fileccia is hoping it's second time lucky as he prepares to return from an injury lay-off.
The Belgian frontman arrived at Maritzburg at the start of the season, still not fully fit after having spent the second-half of the previous season, while still at Free State Stars, sidelined with a major knee injury.
But having recovered, he was due to play for the Team of Choice against SuperSport United on September 21 last year, only to injure himself in the warm-up.
An incorrect diagnosis then led to another lengthy spell on the sidelines, as the player explained to KickOff.
"The first doctor took a scan and told me that it is a mere inflammation, so I then went back to work with the club physiotherapist and fitness trainer," he said.
"However, what was surprising was that after a couple of days I still felt way too much discomfort which gave a signal that this cannot be just an inflammation.
"The coach at the time Ernst Middendorp then suggested I go and see another doctor in Sandton who picked up that I had a tear on my Achilles tendon, which was correct."
The 25-year-old is now hopeful that his injury nightmare is behind him.
"I then took the proper treatment and did my rehabilitation and finally I am back now," he said.
"It is unfortunate that a small problem then became big and though the experience was tough for me I had to be strong mentally. It is now in the past and I am focusing on the future because I want to help the team."
United visit Golden Arrows on Saturday for a Absa Premiership clash and Fileccia will be hoping to feature for Roger de Sa's charges.
Kick off is at 18:00.
