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Anderlecht Coach Expresses Concerns Over Onyekuru’s World Cup Prospects
In a devastating blow to both Anderlecht and the Nigerian national team, Anderlecht coach Hein Vanhaezebrouck has disclosed that Henry Onyekuru, the talented forward, will be sidelined for the remainder of the season due to a severe knee injury. Onyekuru, 20, was stretchered off the pitch following a collision with Eupen goalkeeper Hendrik Van Crombrugge during a Belgian league game last week, resulting in a serious injury for the young star.
Medical assessments have revealed that Onyekuru has sustained significant damage to his medial ligament, with concerns that he may have also suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, according to Belgian newspaper Het Laatste Nieuws. The severity of the injury has raised doubts about the player’s participation in the upcoming 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.
Everton secured Onyekuru’s services last summer, subsequently loaning him to Anderlecht for the remainder of the season. However, this unfortunate incident may have marked the end of his appearances for the Belgian club, as Coach Vanhaezebrouck acknowledged the possibility of a lengthy absence for the young forward, stating, “He is possibly out for six months.”
Should Onyekuru’s recovery indeed take up to six months, his aspirations of representing Nigeria in the World Cup would be shattered. Everton, as his parent club, is expected to oversee his rehabilitation; however, it remains uncertain whether he will regain full fitness in time for the start of the new season.
Additionally, Onyekuru is yet to secure a work permit in England, which raises the question of whether he will be loaned out once more if he makes a full recovery next summer. His undeniable talent and potential have attracted attention from various clubs, and his rehabilitation progress will be closely monitored by football enthusiasts worldwide.
The news of Onyekuru’s injury has disappointed fans, who were eagerly anticipating his World Cup debut. However, his resilience and determination will undoubtedly be tested during this challenging period, as he embarks on a journey of recovery and rehabilitation.
