Sydney FC has been dealt a massive blow on the eve of the 2009/10 Hyundai A-League finals series with inspirational captain Steve Corica ruled out for the entire campaign with a major hamstring injury.
Sydney FC has been dealt a massive blow on the eve of the 2009/10 Hyundai A-League finals series with inspirational captain Steve Corica ruled out for the entire campaign with a major hamstring injury.
The heartbreaking diagnosis ends his illustrious career after he announced last week he would retire at the end of the season.
To see Steve Corica’s retirement announcement before injury Click HERE
Corica suffered a ruptured hamstring tendon in his right leg early in Sunday-s memorable 2-0 win over the Melbourne Victory. He will undergo surgery in Sydney on Friday.
“It is a lot harder today than when I announced I was retiring last week,” Corica said. “I knew when I had that press conference that I had a few games left and not just 10 minutes.”
“I would rather lead by example on the field but I will do my best around the hotel room and in the change rooms for the boys.
“It is sad that I won-t be playing. At the end of the day it is important for the boys to focus on game.
“It is not to be. I am disappointed. Sunday night was a nice way to go out though.
A Sky Blues legend, Corica has played 106 A-League games for Sydney FC and is the clubs greatest ever goal scorer with 23 goals, including the match winning strike that handed the Sky Blues the inaugural A-League title in 2005/06.
Corica will remain at Sydney FC to take up a coaching role with the club from next season.
“It was quite painful when it happened. There was s small problem there for a few weeks. I think it gradually built up. It snapped off the bone,” Corica said.
“I will be there for the boys. Even though I won-t be playing I still want to give my support to them and wish them all the best.
“I knew when I went back out there it wasn-t right. I was struggling to run. I tried a few sharp steps. That was very painful. I knew it was the end of the game for me then.
“I have had a very good career and I am pleased with what I have done.”
Corica will travel with the team when it leaves Sydney tomorrow morning in preparation for Thursday night-s Major Semi Final first leg against the Melbourne Victory at Etihad Stadium.
