Post by QPR Report on Jul 6, 2009 12:09:55 GMT
Melbourne Herald Sun
Melbourne Victory midfielder Nick Ward's fitness is just the jab
July 07, 2009
NO PAIN, no gain might be an old-fashioned sporting line, but Melbourne Victory midfielder Nick Ward can not argue with it.
After all, Ward is feeling better than he has for at least two years after a series of six injections to ensure his troublesome groin does not flare up with the A-League season fast approaching.
Various injuries, including the groin problem, have hampered the attacking midfielder during the past few seasons, starting at English club Queens Park Rangers and continuing through his two seasons with Victory.
But a combination of the Victory medical and training staff and the six glucose injections over six weeks during the off-season, have Ward in top shape for Saturday night's friendly against English Premier League club Fulham at Etihad Stadium and the season kick-off on August 6.
"I'm really looking forward to (the Fulham game)," Ward said.
"It's a good test for us. They've got a game in Europe coming up and I'm sure they won't be taking it lightly.
"We want to put on a good performance and all the boys are looking fit and strong and, coming into the season, it's an ideal game for us.
"The body's feeling really good. I've been having treatment on the groin and it's worked really well.
"I've had about six injections into the groin and it seems to have worked really well. It wasn't pleasant, but it's one of the things you've got to do."
Considered a key component of Victory's midfield when fit, Ward signed a two-year contract extension in the off-season to provide him with some stability as he looks to go through an entire campaign injury-free.
Having eventually played a key role in Victory's premiership-championship double last season, Ward is looking forward to continued success in the A-League, making an impact in the Asian Champions League and perhaps putting himself in the shop window for a second crack at Europe.
"I'm happy here and I'm starting to get over the injuries and I'm just looking to play consistent football and do well for Melbourne Victory," Ward said.
Fulham starts its three-game Australian tour tomorrow night against Gold Coast United at Skilled Park before facing Victory and then Perth Glory in Perth next Wednesday.
Victory warmed up for the Fulham game with a 3-0 win against a Victorian Premier League select team at Shepparton on Saturday.
www.news.com.au/heraldsun/story/0,21985,25742364-2883,00.html