Newcastle United FC

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Ameobi feared the worst

18 Apr 2007 - 14:48:58

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Newcastle United striker Shola Ameobi has admitted that he feared the hip injury that has ruined his season could have ended his career.

Ameobi had an operation at the end of last year to clear up the problem that had troubled him for two years, and marked his comeback by scoring for the reserves in their 5-1 victory against Middlesbrough's second string on Tuesday.

It was his first competitive game since November, and he told the Newcastle Chronicle: "There was a time when I thought my career was over - I didn't want to make that public until now.

"The backroom staff and the medical team knew the injury wouldn't go away unless it was sorted out properly.

"I've had the problem for two years and it was career-threatening.

"I can say that now. But I never wanted to think about it as I wanted to get it right. Thankfully that's happened now.

"It's a bonus to be back now - I never thought this would happen.

"I was nervous before the match because this was my first game in six months, and it's been a long time. You never know how the hip is going react.

"But it's held up really well and I have to say thanks to the physios and medical staff at Newcastle because they've saved my career.

"I'm ecstatic to be able to play this season. I never thought in my wildest dreams that this might happen. It has though, and it was nice."