Nabbout: 'It's been a tough journey'

Caltex Socceroo forward, Andrew Nabbout, has reflected on the shoulder injury he sustained during the FIFA World Cup in Russia four months ago. 

The 25-year-old, currently playing in the J-League for Urawa Red Diamonds, sustained a shoulder injury in Australia’s second group fixture against Denmark. 

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However, due to hard work and persistence, Nabbout has returned earlier than expected. 

“It’s been a tough journey,” he said.

“I’ve been working double-time to be able to come back early and be ready for the Asian Cup. My wife’s had to sit there watch me do rehab all day at home which is tough on her.

“It’s proved to be good for me. I’ve come back two or three months earlier than expected, and I’ve played about four games in Japan which is good, and now I’m ready to go.”

Interestingly, despite being born in Melbourne, Nabbout is of Lebanese descent and was eligible to represent their national team.

And with the Caltex Socceroos playing against Lebanon on Tuesday, November 20 in Sydney, Nabbout was excited at the prospect of facing a team which bears so much significance to him.

“It’s a very big game to be involved in,” said Nabbout.

“If I do get that honour to play, it’s going to be a really proud moment for me and my family, obviously being from Lebanese heritage.

“Most importantly, it’s good preparation for us for the Asian Cup. It’s more about how we’re going to play and how we’re going to prepare. 

“Whether I play or not, it’s going to be good to be there, and obviously it’s Timmy’s [Cahill] final game, so it’s going to be a very special moment for Australian fans.”

The Caltex Socceroos take on Lebanon at ANZ Stadium on Tuesday, November 20 at 7:30pm. You can purchase tickets here to Tim Cahill’s Farewell.