VICTOR KUMWENDA, Ebebiyin, Equatorial Guinea
MINISTRY of Youth and Sport permanent secretary Agness Musunga has urged midfielder Nathan Sinkala to be strong as he recuperates from an injury.
Sinkala, who will be out of action for four weeks, sustained a knee ligament injury in Sunday’s 1-1 draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The Chipolopolo vice-captain has since been ruled out of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Equatorial Guinea.
Speaking when she visited Sinkala at Inmaculada Hotel on Tuesday, Musunga encouraged the 24-year-old to be positive.
Musunga said Sinkala’s injury has come at a time when his services are needed.
“I was speaking to the minister [Chishimba Kambwili] this morning, he is wishing you a quick and successful recovery. Football is a contact sport. Such things happen, so remain positive and don’t rush because we still want your leg to continue performing,” said Musunga, who was accompanied by National Sports Council of Zambia vice-chairperson Emmanuel Katebe.
On the delay to acquire crutches, Musunga attributed it to logistical challenges but assured the player that everything is being done to address the problem.
And Sinkala thanked Musunga for the visit.
“Thanks madam for coming to see me. As for the swelling and pain, it has reduced. I am feeling much better now,” Sinkala said.
And national team doctor Joseph Kabungo said the player has been told to rest for two days to avoid aggravating the injury.
“He is coping well. Nathan is a strong player, when the pain reduces he will be able to walk with crutches. He will only start rehabilitation after three weeks. It is not a career- threatening injury, he will soon be back on the pitch,” Kabungo said.
Sinkala has returned to TP Mazembe after the expiry of his six-month loan at Swiss outfit FC Grasshopper although he is expected to move to another European club.