Pamplonians' delight as Nekounam returns to Osasuna Squad

Previously anticipated by Osasuna medical staff to be sidelined for more than 6 months, Javad Nekounam returned to Osasuna’s first team training on Thursday.

Nekounam was hit with a serious injury blow in August as he ruptured his right knee ligament in a pre-season friendly against Villareal and undewent surgery in Germany to repair the damage. Nekounam picked the injury after coming in as a sub in the 63rd minute of the game and after just 5 minutes, he had to be carried off. He had just joined Osasuna team after the Asian Cup.

Nekounam played 24 times for the team last term and scored twice in his first season in Spain as he helped los Rojillos to reach the UEFA Cup semi final with his winning goal against Bordeaux.  Nekounam’s impressive form was not understimated as he was chosen as one of the most effective player of La Liga for 2006-2007 season. He was also chosen as Iran’s best player of the year and won the “Golden Ball” Award by Iranian Football Officials last year. 

Despite Javad Nekounam’s lengthy injury lay-off,  Osasuna officials awarded their 27-year-old midfielder with a new three-year deal in November 2007,which Nekounam and his agent agreed to, that will keep him at the club until 2011.

14th place Osasuna is set to visit Getafe on Sunday.