Injury forces Postiga out for 3-4 weeks; in Madrid for treatment

ATLETICO DE KOLKATA have been dealt a major blow ahead of their match away at FC Goa, as news has emerged that their marquee player, Portuguese striker Helder Postiga has been ruled out for 3 to 4 weeks due to an injury sustained during the first match.

On Saturday night when ATK took on Chhenaiyin FC in Chennai in the opening match of the second season of Indian Super League, the ex Tottenham and Valencia forward played a vital part in their win by scoring 2 goals. While scoring the second goal, Postiga seemed to land awkwardly on his right leg, and his face skewed up in pain as he clutched his foot and fell to the ground.

The injury looked bad as he was stretched off the ground. Afterwards, even as ATK celebrated a 3-2 win over Chennaiyin, fans waited with anticipation for any news on Postiga's injury.

There were many conflicting media reports, including ones that said that medical tests had shown that the sprain on his leg wasn't too bad. Yet it was never confirmed whether he would be able to play tomorrow's match against FC Goa.

But ultimately it has turned out that he won't. Test results obtained in Chennai was sent to a medical team at Atletico de Madrid, who have replied that Postiga's sprain is a serious injury that will require longer, more intensive treatment. 

The article claims that later today Postiga will be sent to Portugal, from where he will travel to Madrid to go through rehabilitation.

Being out of action for 4 weeks means missing out on half the ISL season. But the Atletico de Kolkata management is reportedly not looking for a replacement for their marquee player as of now. 

At the pre-match press conference, ATK coach Habas acknowledged that losing Postiga was a big blow,

“Postiga is unavailable, but I have faith in my other players to perform... I am happy with them and their performances”