FIFA World Cup: How To Prevent Injuries To Key Players

Pin It Now! The spate of injuries to soccer players before the commencement of the FIFA World Cup in South Africa this year is alarming, just as it has always been. This would definitely rob the spectators of the opportunity to see some of their idols participate in the soccer fiesta in the African soil for the first time.

Some of the affected players would have made their debut for their countries in South Africa; but as it stands now it means they have to wait for another 4years before they could think of playing in the world cup. Who knows they may lose their fitness before the next edition, or they may also have to battle with another injury prior to the next tournament.

Some players that have been completely ruled out of the world cup as I write, include: Michael Ballack (Germany), John Obi Mikel, Ikechukwu Uche (Nigeria), Michael Essien (Ghana), Nani (Portugal), Rio Ferdinand, David Beckham (England), Didier Drogba (Cote d’ivoire) etc. Some others who are doubtful for the tournament include goal keeper David James (England), Ajan Robben (Netherlands), Andrea Pirlo (One of Italy’s best), Julio Cesar, Michel Bastos (Brazil), Jozy Altidore (USA), etc.

Didier Drogba fractured his arm in their friendly against Japan; with his absence as one of the best strikers in the world right now, the world would greatly miss his free kicks, headers and his great goals. Andrea Pirlo who was voted best player in the final match between his country Italy and France in Germany 2006 would also be missing in South Africa as a result of injury. David Beckham’s superlative runs, crosses and free kicks would not be there also in the African soil. These people would be greatly missed by soccer fans.

Most of the injured soccer stars got their injuries during friendly matches and in training. I would rather suggest that players should be allowed time to rest after a hectic season, and play more of their friendly matches before the commencement of the world cup. If a player is injured then, he would have more time to recover from his wounds. ‘Fire brigade’ style of preparation must be avoided as it makes players unsettled, and puts them at the risk of injuries.

Besides, International friendlies should be played between teams that have qualified for the world cup. This would reduce the incidence of injuries as everybody is conscious of playing in the world cup. This consciousness ensures that everyone plays with caution; those who failed to qualify for the tournament are spoilers, and they would jeopardize others chances of participating in the world cup.

Finally, the world soccer governing body should apply stiffer penalties against rough tacklings to make dangerous tackles less attractive, thereby reducing the incidence of debilitating injuries to soccer stars.

FIFA World Cup: How To Prevent Injuries To Key Players