Brazilian sidelined by stomach rupture
Tuesday, March 11, 2003
Article summary
Örgryte IS will be without the Brazilian Afonso Alves for the start of the season due to a stomach injury.
Article body
Örgryte IS's preparations for the new Swedish season have been hit by the news that Brazilian striker Afonso Alves will be missing for up to six weeks after he suffered a stomach injury.
Ruptured muscle
The injury was discovered last week but he seemed set to be fit for Örgryte's first league game against Helsingborgs IF on 6 April. However, tests have revealed that the forward had a ruptured muscle and will need to undergo surgery.
'Huge blow'
"We calculate on him being out for anywhere between four to six weeks," said Örgryte coach Erik Hemrén. "It is a huge blow for us and all we can hope for now is that the surgery goes according to plan, and that he can begin his rehab training as soon as possible."
Successful move
Afonso is one of four Brazilians at the club and proved a huge success last year following his loan move from Örgryte's sister club, CA Mineiro. He scored 13 goals in just 18 games as Örgryte finished third.
