Newcastle United star’s ‘strange’ training ground injury that ruled him out for six weeks
Anthony Elanga started the season well for Newcastle United before picking up an injury during training.
Newcastle United winger Anthony Elanga has declared he feels “120%” fit after returning from his groin injury earlier than expected.
The 24-year-old made a bright start to the campaign, scoring twice in the Magpies’ opening three Premier League matches before picking up an injury in training ahead of the trip to Leeds United.
It was initially feared that Elanga could face a lengthy spell on the sidelines, but he ultimately missed just four matches for the club.
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And now, having featured in each of Newcastle’s last four games, Elanga has returned to the Sweden squad after missing the previous round of UEFA Nations League fixtures through injury.
Anthony Elanga reflects on ‘strange’ NUFC injury
Reflecting on his recovery, Elanga told Fotbollskanalen: “It was an injury that was a little difficult to identify. It was in the groin. But I came back faster than everyone thought. It was a strange injury. I'm just happy to be back.
“I took care of myself very well. I eat well, I rest well. The medical team at the club was very good with me, as was the cooperation with my own team that I work with off the pitch.”
Although Elanga has started just once since returning, the former Manchester United winger insists he has no lingering fitness concerns as he looks to rediscover the form he showed at the start of the season.
“Nothing at all,” Elanga added. “I feel fit, 120%. I’m back now and have played three matches. It’s about regaining the momentum I had at the start of the season. I’m happy to be here now, back with the national team, and to build on that momentum.”
Elanga will come up against Newcastle teammate Amar Dedic on Saturday night when Sweden host Bosnia & Herzegovina, before rounding off their UEFA Nations League B group campaign against Poland. Avoiding defeat in both matches would guarantee Graham Potter’s side promotion to Tier A.
Sweden currently sit top of their group and remain unbeaten, having won three and drawn one of their opening four matches.