UNLUCKY IVO’S ON HIS WAY BACK AT KASSAM
IVO Pekalski’s bid to make his long-awaited Oxford debut has taken a major step forward, with the midfielder returning to England to continue his rehabilitation.
The 27-year-old, twice capped by Sweden, has yet to play for the U’s.
He ruptured cruciate ligaments in his left knee in what was thought to be his first training session with the club after joining from Halmstad for an undisclosed fee in August.
Pekalski returned home to Sweden after going under the knife and is now back in Oxford as he works towards finally getting his U’s career off the ground.
While suffering a major blow before beginning his first serious foray into English football, the former Malmo man has kept a positive mindset.
“I wasn’t happy when it happened, of course, but I knew the only thing that can make it better is to be so focused and accept the situation,” said Pekalski.
“I got injured pretty quick. What can I do?
“All I can do is my daily work and be positive about the situation.
“Of course, there were maybe three or four hours that were really tough that day when it happened.
“Since then, I’ve been optimistic.
“I’ve been through it and I know there’s worse things in life than an ACL rupture.”
Pekaklsi is also relishing the opportunity to be back at the Kassam Stadium.
He said: “You feel more like you’re one of the guys.
“Maybe I’ve felt a little bit like that already, but the distance makes it a bit harder.
“Once you’re here, you feel it’s coming (a return to action).
“Still, I know I have to put hard work every day and there are a lot of things to do before I get there.
“I’m happy to be here and I’m motivated to work hard to get back.”