Drogba 'May Still Play' in WC2010 & Mikel Explains
COME ON ENGLAND
By Since66
June 5 2010
Didier Drogba underwent surgery today in Berne, Switzerland on his fractured elbow, sustained against Japan yesterday (Friday). The operation has been deemed a success and hopes are high in the Ivory Coast camp that Dids may still play a part in the Ivorians World Cup campaign.
The following statement was released by Ivory Coast's FA today and it reads:
"Following the fracture of the ulna which Didier Drogba suffered in the international friendly between Japan and the Ivory Coast, on June 4 in Sion, the national team captain was today, Saturday June 5, admitted to the Lindenhof hospital in Berne.
"He was taken care of by Professors Ralph Hertel and Michel Gaillot, eminent specialists in their area.
"The surgical operation which was necessitated by his condition was performed with success.
"Professors Hertel and Gaillot, as well as the Elephants' medical staff, are confident regarding the speedy recovery of the player.
"The FIF thank the sporting world and all those in the Ivory Coast, in Africa and throughout the world who have shown their support to Didier Drogba and the Ivory Coast."
The Ivory Coast's first game, against Portugal, is in 10 days time. With the progressive news of Dids condition, it is feasible that he can play in the Les Elephants last two group games.
A spokesman said, "He's not at all out of the World Cup. He can still play.
"We don't know if he will be able to play the first game - that depends on the verdict of the medical team. But he's definitely not out of the tournament."
Obi Mikel explained this afternoon his decision to withdraw from Nigeria's World Cup squad.
He said, "It is the same knee and I did not want to risk any further damage, also I think it is in the best interest of the team for me to withdraw rather than waste a slot.
"I wish the team good luck and I know that they will surprise people."
Mikel joined Nigeria's squad late because he was recovering from knee surgery from an injury sustained during the latter part of Chelsea's 'Double Winning' season, however, it was felt that the injury was improving to slowly for the knee to endure the stresses and demands of playing three games in a short space of time during WC2010.