Makukula thrilled at Sevilla return
Wednesday, March 22, 2006
Article summary
Sevilla FC have been boosted by the return of Portuguese striker Ariza Makukula after six months of rehabilitation for a serious knee injury.
Article body
Sevilla FC have been boosted by the return of striker Ariza Makukula after six months' rehabilitation for a serious knee injury.
Fit again
The 25-year-old has not kicked a ball in anger this season after suffering damage to the cartilage and blood vessels in his right knee during a pre-season friendly against Bolton Wanderers FC. In September, he had surgery in Brussels and the Portuguese has finally resurfaced in Seville after working his way back to fitness.
Ready to deliver
Makukula said: "I am very happy, and I thank the club from the bottom of my heart and promise to show just why Sevilla signed me. The club didn't know if I would play again, but they kept the No9 shirt for me and I'll be very proud to wear it."
European eligiblity
The DR Congo-born forward joined Sevilla in a €4m deal before the 2004/05 season, having previously sustained a serious ligament injury to his right knee while at Real Valladolid. He played just 13 times for Sevilla last term as his problems persisted. Despite his lack of action, he is registered for the UEFA Cup and could feature in Sevilla's forthcoming quarter-final against FC Zenit St. Petersburg.
