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Abdul Fatawu Shines on First Start in Nine Months as He Takes Major Step in ACL Recovery
Leicester City are taking a cautious but confident approach with Abdul Fatawu’s return from a long-term ACL injury, thanks to the squad depth they now possess on the wings.
Fatawu made his first start in nine months during Sunday’s friendly, scoring a superb solo goal in a performance that suggested he has recovered strongly from the injury he suffered last November.
Fatawu is not the first City player to suffer a serious knee injury, with both Ricardo Pereira and James Justin experiencing similar setbacks in recent years.
However, with options like Stephy Mavididi, Kasey McAteer, Jeremy Monga, Will Alves, and Jake Evans also available, Leicester are in no rush to overwork Fatawu, allowing him to be gradually eased back to full fitness.
Manager Marti Cifuentes praised Fatawu’s return, crediting the medical and performance staff for his sharpness after such a long layoff.
While acknowledging that the winger still needs to build the stamina to handle the Championship’s demanding schedule, Cifuentes expressed satisfaction with his progress.
Cifuentes also emphasised how competition among the wide players will help drive improvement across the squad.
“Abdul was outstanding,” he said, noting that the quality on both wings makes it difficult for opponents.
He added that players like Kasey McAteer and Jeremy Monga are showing promise and will continue to develop, creating a healthy competition for places.
Fatawu echoed his manager’s sentiments, saying the focus is on team success rather than individual competition. “It doesn’t matter who plays; we just want to win,” he said.
Showing confidence and joy on the pitch, Fatawu noted he feels no fear or hesitation following his injury and is excited to enjoy playing again.
He also spoke positively about Cifuentes’ management style, praising the way the team trains and plays under him, and expressing optimism for the season ahead.
Fatawu believes the injury has taught him valuable lessons and made him a better person, both mentally and professionally, as he now looks to make up for lost time on the pitch.
