5 tips for getting through ACL rehab
Injury rehab can be a lonely journey, but Everton's Yannick Bolasie has 5 tips to help you every step of the way
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1 LEARN FROM IT
“I tore my my meniscus and ACL and was told I was going to be out for 10-12 months,” explains the DR Congo international. “I told myself it’s part of football and now I know I have the strength to get through tough times.”
2 SWITCH OFF
“After I got injured I totally switched off from the football,” says Bolasie. “I focused on going to the gym, doing my work and being with my family. Time has passed by so fast.”
3 EVALUATE YOUR GAME
“I wouldn’t like to say it’s a blessing in disguise, but it’s given me the chance to look at my game,” says the £25 million winger. “I’ve worked on things I couldn’t do before. When I come back I’m going to be the the full package.”
4 TAKE YOUR TIME
“Don’t rush your rehab,” advises the 28-year-old. “Listen to your physio and coaches and focus on doing everything right. Come back too soon and you’ll risk making things worse.”
5 SEEK OUT SUPPORT
“I’ve spoken to a lot of players who have suffered the same injury - Danny Welbeck, Andy Johnson and Muhamed Besic - they’ve all been helpful,” reveals Bolasie. “Everyone has different story, but they keep telling me I’ll be fine and that’s the main thing.”
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