Times Of Swaziland: ‘NUNU’ BIG DERBY BLOW FOR ‘BIRDS’

‘NUNU’ BIG DERBY BLOW FOR ‘BIRDS’
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Mengameli Mabuza on 29/10/2024 07:45:00


MBABANE – Mbabane Swallows will be without gifted attacking midfielder
Sizolwethu ‘Nunu’ Shabalala, in the crackerjack fixture against archrivals
Mbabane Highlanders, next week.
The Umkhonto KaShaka pacey player was stretchered out of the field in his
side’s 0-1 defeat against Moneni Pirates at the Mayaluka Stadium in Big Bend,
three days ago.
Serious
He was rushed to the Raleigh Fitkin Memorial (RFM) Hospital, after suffering a
serious ankle injury. The team doctor, Samkeliso Mdluli, confirmed that the
player had to be rushed to the hospital for a radiology exam, which revealed
that the player had suffered a dislocation of the left ankle, rather than a
fracture. Mdluli further stated that the player was currently wearing a
backslap, a type of splint used to support and immobilise the injured ankle, in
order to facilitate healing and minimise further damage.
“Upon receiving this news, we immediately implemented the necessary steps to
manage the injury, including the use of a backslap to provide support and
immobilisation of the affected area. We are committed to providing the highest
level of care to our players and will continue to closely monitor our player’s
progress and adjust our treatment plan as needed to facilitate a full and speedy
recovery,” he said. The player, who had recently recovered from a groin injury
that had sidelined him for the first three games of the season, expressed his
disappointment and sadness over the latest setback. Speaking openly about his
emotional state, he described himself as devastated by the injury, especially
given his recent return to the field and renewed efforts to contribute to the
team’s success.
“I’m deeply saddened and disheartened by the recent injury that has hindered
my return to the field and my ability to contribute to the team’s success.
Having recently recovered from a groin injury, I had hoped to make a significant
impact in our next league matches, only to find myself sidelined again. However,
I remain optimistic that the injury will not be as severe as it seems, and I
have faith in the abilities of my fellow players to carry the team forward in my
absence,” he said. The recovery time for a dislocated ankle can vary depending
on the severity of the injury, the individual’s overall health and physical
condition, and the type of treatment received.
Recovery
In general, the healing process can take anywhere from several weeks to several
months, with an average recovery time of around four-six weeks for less severe
cases. In more severe cases, such as those involving a fracture or damage to the
ligaments and tendons surrounding the ankle, the recovery time may be longer and
may require physical therapy or surgery.
A backslab is a form of splint or cast that is applied to the injured limb to
stabilise and protect the injured joint or bone.
It is typically made of plaster of Paris and is applied in a way that allows for
some adjustment and movement, while still providing sufficient support and
immobilisation to aid the healing process.Swallows under the guidance of Caleb
‘No Nonsense’ Ngwenya, are slated to compete against their traditional
rivals, Mbabane Highlanders, in week seven of the MTN Premier League. The
long-standing rivalry between the two teams is expected to add to the excitement
of the match, which will take place next week Sunday at Mavuso Sports Centre.