Mexico coach explains ‘very positive’ feeling over Jimenez head injury
Mexico head coach Gerardo Martino says that he feels confident that Raul Jimenez’s head injury will not have long-term implications on his career.
Jimenez fractured his skull in an accidental clash with David Luiz in Wolves’ clash with Arsenal on Sunday.
Indeed, while Luiz was able to play on until half-time with a bandage around his head, Jimenez fared worse. The 29-year-old went to hospital, where – soon after – the club said he was “comfortable” after surgery.
More recently, though, Martino has said that he has had contact with his international striker. The coach told TUDN (via ESPN) that he is optimistic about Jimenez’s recovery.
“I had contact through a video call and it was normal without any type of problems,” Martino said.
“I understand the hermeticism of the club not wanting to give out information that isn’t correct, but we have been in contact with them permanently and we are checking on the evolution and we are very positive about the future.”
Crucially, Martino added that he does not believe that the injury could have long-lasting effects.
“I don’t think it will [harm his career],” he said. “Firstly, Raul is a very strong person and football player, with a good head and a very positive mentality.”
“He is very intelligent, I don’t think it will [have long-term implication], at least for us from being in contact permanently with the club doctors, Raul and his wife.
“We know first-hand how his evolution has gone and as I said before, in a few days he’ll put it behind him and he’ll look to recover and think about returning to the pitch.”
Jimenez could leave hospital next week
Meanwhile, Wolves released a statement on behalf of club doctor Matt Perry on Wednesday evening.
Doctor Perry revealed that Jimenez should be able to leave hospital by “early next week” after making “excellent progress”.
He added: “Any injury of this nature is complex and timescales are uncertain but it’s safe to say that Raul’s most immediate needs are simple: space, rest and peace.”
Wolves return to action on Sunday when they travel to Anfield to face Premier League champions Liverpool.