Ivan Mamut Returns To Terengganu

KUALA NERUS, Jan 8 (Bernama) -- The Turtles Squad fans’ dream to see their import striker, Ivan Mamut, back in action is set to come true after the player arrived in Terengganu yesterday.

Terengganu Football Club (TFC) chief executive officer Mohd Sabri Abas said that Mamut finally returned to TFC after a long break due to an Achilles tendon injury in his left leg during preseason training.

However, he said that the tall Croatian-born player still needs to undergo health examinations and rehabilitation treatments with TFC's medical staff in Gong Badak.

“Mamut had to take an extended break for almost a year for surgery and treatment overseas due to the injury to his left leg. He was also granted permission to undergo his recuperation period in Croatia for more comfort.

“Alhamdulillah, Mamut's arrival yesterday brought relief and good news to the football fans of Terengganu who have long missed seeing him on the field,” he said when contacted via WhatsApp today.

Mohd Sabri said that Mamut's presence is hoped to help sharpen the attacking line of the Turtles Squad as they prepare for the Malaysia Cup semi-final match and the remaining matches in the Super League.

He said that, last season, Mamut, who was dubbed the goal machine by the supporters of the Black and White team, had an impressive record, scoring 23 goals from 35 appearances, including in the 2023 AFC Cup.

“Mamut's return will strengthen TFC's attacking lineup alongside our two other import players, Ismaheel Akinade and Nelson Bonilla. We hope he recovers quickly and can play in the Malaysia Cup semi-final match against Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) at the Gong Badak Stadium on Jan 17,” he added.

The Turtles Squad, coached by head coach Badrul Afzan Razali, is currently in fourth place in the Super League with 24 points.

-- BERNAMA