SEAN IN FIGHT TO PLAY AGAIN
HE’S one of only five Irish players to score at the Euros for Ireland but Sean St Ledger knows salvaging his career cannot depend on his past glories. Still only 32, St Ledger has plenty of time left in the game if only his body gave him the chance. Colorado Rapids in the MLS was his last club but he was released in November without kicking a ball last season. Knee trouble has plagued the 37-times capped defender and there’s no guarantee his latest attempt at regaining fitness will prolong his career. “I decided against a meniscus transplant which puts you out for a year and leaves just a 20% chance of playing again,” revealed St Ledger yesterday. “My only other option was visiting the famous surgeon Dr Hans Müllerwohlfahrt in Germany and he put him on a rehab programme. “I’m at the stage now where I’m able to run. He thinks I’ll be fully back in another six weeks which would be perfect timing to start with a new club in pre-season. I’d just be thankful to play again because being out of the game after 12 straight years has been quite really tough mentally. “People think I’ve retired but I want to give it one last go. At this stage, I’m without a club and paying for all the treatment myself. “My former club Leicester City have been fantastic by giving me some scouting work. The only downside of that job is that it makes me miss the game even more and question whether I am good enough to still play at a decent standard. “Hopefully someone takes a punt on me. If not, I’ll work on coaching badges with the FAI and play part-time.” That option could result in him joining the League of Ireland ranks after Dave Robertson tried to entice him to Sligo last year. “I had just started my rehab so it was the wrong timing,” explained St Ledger, “but I’d definitely be interested in coming to Ireland.” ST LEDGER was at the announcement of the FAI’S partnership with Irish menswear brand Benetti.