Sydney FC midfielder Chris Zuvela will undergo 12 months of recovery after scans revealed he has ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee.
The 24-year old was injured making a tackle during latter stages of the Sky Blues 2-1 win over Wellington Phoenix on Monday night.
It’s the second time it has happened to the Sydney FC Academy graduate who endured a similar injury in his right knee during the 2018/19 A-League season.
“It’s pretty tough to be going through it all once again,” he said.
“I have to stay mentally strong, and I’ve got great support from the club and my family who are all around me.
“I’m sure I can pull through this, I just need support from everyone.”
Zuvela’s first injury happened during a training session and he returned to action midway last season.
He says this time around it felt different.
“I went down in pain, I didn’t know to what extent the injury was, but I definitely felt more pain than the first time.
“They boys told me to stay strong in the changing room afterwards, Bimbi (Head Coach Steve Corica), Rhyan Grant and Alex Baumjohann all told me they’ve done it twice and come through it stronger.
“That’s given me the confidence and trust to know that doing the hard yards will ensure I come out of it okay.
“Last time I had Trent with me which made it easier, but now I’m on my own.
“I know what I have to go through so I will just take it one step at a time and I’ll get there.”
Head Coach Steve Corica sympathised with the midfielder but offered his full support in getting him back to fitness.
“It’s hugely disappointing for Chris and I know what he’s going through, having had a similar situation in my career.
“He’ll get the best medical and recovery support from the club to help him through this and everyone here wants to see him return to playing in Sky Blues as soon as possible.”
Zuvela is expected to go in for surgery next week and will begin his recovery immediately.
