Knee injury worse than people know: Zlatan

Nov 20, 2017 - 1:06 AM Zlatan Ibrahimovic claims his knee problems were far worse than people realise.

There were fears the veteran Manchester United striker may not play again after suffering meniscus and cruciate ligament damage in April.

At the very least a layoff of nine to 12 months was anticipated but the 36-year-old former Sweden international defied those gloomy predictions to return to Premier League action on Saturday.

Ibrahimovic appeared as a 77th-minute substitute as Jose Mourinho's side ran out 4-1 winners over Newcastle at Old Trafford.

As if to underline his fitness, Ibrahimovic vaulted over a barrier to speak to reporters after the game.

"In my recovery I have not rushed anything," he said.

"People may believe that because I have been out for six-and-a-half months but I have been following protocol and my schedule day by day.

"The only secret has been working hard.

"But this was not a one-man work, it was everyones and it is thanks to them that I am back on the field and can play because if people really knew the real injury they would be in shock that I was even playing.

"But I keep that personal.

"People think it was only the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) in my knee, but it was more than the ACL.

"But it's sensitive and that's why I don't choose to talk about it."

The uncertainty over Ibrahimovic's future was exacerbated when his contract with United lapsed during his time on the sidelines.

It was not until the new season had begun that a one-year deal was signed but Ibrahimovic insists there were never doubts.

"It's fantastic to be playing. Jose said, 'Do whatever you want, I trust in you and you know what you have to do,' so I was not worried," he said.

"The contract is all paperwork and I do the physical work. Even if I had a contract or not I needed to train.

"I knew I would stay because I wanted to stay. The numbers have never been an issue.

"I could have signed a deal after two months but didn't because I am honest with myself. I want to stay because I can perform."

Ibrahimovic, whose stellar career includes trophy-laden stints at Juventus, both Milan clubs, Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, has not looked beyond the end of the campaign.

"I am at the age where I can choose what I want to do," he said.

"I don't sign five or 10-year deals.

"I am just happy to be back playing and doing what I am good at."

Source: AAP