Bromley defender, Carl Jenkinson has “fire in my belly” to overcome a hip injury suffered in the Ravens’ final pre-season friendly.
Jenkinson suffered a dislocated hip during Bromley’s 2-1 defeat to Millwall in their final pre-season friendly at the Copperjax Stadium on 26 July, which required a trip to Princess Royal University Hospital in Orpington, London.
The 33-year-old has now released a statement without providing much detail other than primarily a message of thanks to those who have supported him since he suffered the dislocation.
“Just wanted to put something out there to say a big thank you to the people who rallied around to help me on Saturday. The paramedics, doctors, nurses and everyone at PRU hospital. It’s only when you are in a time of need that you realise how incredible these people really are.”
“Thanks to everyone at the club who has helped me through the last couple of days. Bromley is a football club that is growing very quickly but the soul of the club remains incredibly tight-knit and steadfast.”
Jenkinson proceeded to reflect on the importance of appreciating every second of being a professional footballer towards the end of playing careers, such is the risk of injury snatching precious time away from the pitch.
“Unfortunately these setbacks are part and parcel of the game we love, and you have to take the rough with the smooth. As you get a bit older, you come to appreciate every second you have on the pitch, because you learn that that in sport it can be taken away from you at any moment.”
Last season saw Bromley finish 11th in their first season as an EFL club in League Two and Jenkinson is keen to use the thought of returning to the pitch and contributing to a highly-anticipated second season as motivation to overcome his injury.
“I feel a deep sadness writing this knowing it’s going to be a while until I can play again, but that pre-match feeling and the thought of stepping out onto the pitch with the boys again already gives me the fire in my belly to tackle this process head on.”
“To my teammates, the Gaffer, the coaching staff, the Chairman, and everyone who works for Bromley, thanks for your love and support. I’ll be back out there to play my part as soon as I can in what I know is going to be a great season.”