CSKA Forward Darius Songaila returned yesterday evening to Moscow from the USA, and today took part in his first practice at USK CSKA. Remember that in the States, Songaila underwent observation and rehabilitation after an ankle injury in a November 14 Euroleague game with the Italian club Virtus. After practice Darius gave our site an interview:
- First and most importantly: how do you feel today?
“In general, my leg is close to being back to normal. Honestly speaking, I’m sick of being injured. I’m happy that I’m back with the team. I was missing basketball and my teammates.”
- Could you say that you’ve recovered 100%?
“I think it’s a little early to say that. Today I went through my first practice at USK CSKA, ant the team doctor Aleksandr Zykov will be with the team tonight. I’ll have to speak with him and tell him about the diagnoses and recommendations of the American doctors.”
- Why did you choose the USA for examination and rehabilitation? Aren’t there qualified diagnostic centers in Russia and in Europe?
“I don’t doubt that there are. But I spent five years in America and saw with my own eyes what the local doctors can do. You have to admit that you trust what you know best. I’m happy that the club and I were in agreement on this matter.”
- Did you follow CSKA in the Euroleague and Superleague?
“I did, but it wasn’t easy. European basketball isn’t very popular in America. Every once in a while it seemed that if I had been on the floor, the game would have been different. But on the other hand, the guys did well and won four out of five.”
- When will you be ready to play in official games?
“Right now I’m not sure. Right now I’m going to build my leg back up slowly, listen to the doctors and talk to the head coach.”
- Did you work out in the US?
“In the beginning it was just rehabilitation, then working a little with the ball, and now we’ll start to increase the workload. We’ll see how the leg will react.”
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