• Premier League

Vermaelen reveals disastrous injury gamble

ESPN staff
January 17, 2011
Thomas Vermaelen: 'I have tried to come back three times, but the pain proved too much' © Getty Images
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Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen has admitted gambling on his fitness in order to represent Belgium - a risk that has backfired spectacularly.

Vermaelen's season has been blighted by an Achilles injury, limiting him to a mere three appearances for the Gunners as they push for a first trophy since 2005.

The centre-back has suffered a number of setbacks in his bid to return to first-team action, with the most recent meaning that he must undergo surgery this week. Ahead of the operation, Vermaelen has hinted that his decision to play for Belgium worsened his plight after the injury first surfaced.

"I have already tried to come back three times, but the pain proved too much on each occasion," he said in the Daily Mail. "Recent tests showed a minor problem next to the Achilles tendon has been causing the pain. That's why I'll undergo surgery.

"I knew I had a problem at the beginning of September, when I was preparing for Belgium's games against Germany and Turkey. I didn't want to miss them, but after the game in Turkey, the pain became too great."

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has confirmed that he is in the market for a defender, with Sebastien Squillaci laid low for three weeks after picking up a knock against Leeds United.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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