Messi has been sidelined by injury which has forced him to sit out Kenya Police's opening games of the season, including their CAF Confederation Cup preliminary games a fortnight ago.
David Owino Ambulu, fondly known as "Messi," has been a notable absentee from Kenya Police’s matches this season due to a knee injury.
The club recently provided an update on his condition, offering insight into his rehabilitation and a potential return date.
Ambulu, a versatile player who joined the Law Enforcers from KCB in January 2022, has been a standout performer for the Anthony Kimani-coached side, both as a left back or a midfielder.
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Although Were scored his first goal for Police during their 2-1 loss to Zamalek in the CAF Confederation Cup preliminary clash last week, he has also missed some crucial chances for the side in his three appearances so far,
His impressive displays have earned him a place in the hearts of Kenya Police fans. Last season, he played a crucial role in the team's success, particularly when then-head coach Salim Babu switched him from left-back to his preferred midfield position.
His contributions were instrumental in helping the club win their first major title, the FKF Cup, and qualify for the CAF Confederation Cup for the first time in the club’s history. Unfortunately, the Kenyan international was unable to participate in the continental tournament after suffering a knee injury during pre-season.
In an update, the club revealed that Ambulu underwent surgery to address the meniscus issue in his left knee seven weeks ago and is now in the rehabilitation phase. The club's medical team is optimistic about his recovery.
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“David Ambulu (Messi) underwent left knee meniscus surgery seven weeks ago and is currently in the rehabilitation phase. He has already gained full range of motion (ROM) and normal gait, and he will continue working on regaining strength, mobility, and stability in the knee, focusing on restoring full function,” the club's statement read.
Messi was set for a move to Tainan City in Taiwan earlier this year, but complications with regards to his release led to collapse of the move, and he remains the only player on the club’s books that is a registered police officer.
While his recovery is progressing well, Police fans will need to wait until at least the end of December to see Ambulu back in action, assuming no setbacks occur in his rehabilitation process.
Coach Anthony Kimani, who admitted to missing Ambulu's presence during the team's CAF Confederation Cup match against Ethiopian Coffee, a clash they won before facing Zamalek, will have to do without his star player for an extended period.