‘NUNU’ BIG DERBY BLOW FOR ‘BIRDS’

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.

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