My own conscious decision to carry on playing despite injury: Jhingan

Panaji: Sandesh Jhingan will be out for a minimum of four weeks after the India defender suffered a cheekbone fracture during the CAFA Nations Cup clash against Iran at the Hisor Central Stadium in Tajikistan.
The India captain clashed with a rival player in the 14th minute and picked up an injury. But despite the setback, with the referee even stopping the game after he noticed blood on Jhingan’s face, the defender continued on the field till the end.
The decision to allow Jhingan to continue despite the medical team examining the player in the dressing room at half time raised questions about player safety. FC Goa, a club the player represents, were alarmed and told the All India Football Federation (AIFF) that the medical team should have intervened, invoked concussion protocols at a minimum, and guaranteed his safety.
“In football, a contact sport, injuries are normal, but instances of poor judgment (by the medical team) and disregard for player welfare are deeply troubling,” said a senior official.
Jhingan has now stepped in to douse the fire, insisting it was his decision to take the field in the second half.
“I just want to clarify from my side that it was my conscious decision to carry on to play for the rest of match,” Jhingan said on Friday. “I don’t promote or feel proud of it, but it was my decision made purely on the heat of the game, and I take full responsibility of it.”
Jhingan underwent surgery on Thursday and has been discharged.
“Doctors have said he will need four to six weeks to make a return. Jhingan wants to start training immediately, but he’s been advised to take rest for at least a week and then start individual and gym training to maintain fitness. There cannot be any contact training until he gets all clear from the doctors,” said the official.
The AIFF later said in a statement that Jhingan is “under expert medical care” in Goa, and his recovery and rehabilitation are being closely monitored.
“AIFF and FC Goa remain fully aligned in ensuring Sandesh receives the best treatment and every support required during this period. The AIFF reaffirms its commitment to always stand by players and clubs whenever injuries occur on national duty, extending complete care and assistance. Our collective efforts are focused on helping Sandesh return to the field safely and at the earliest. The AIFF thanks FC Goa for their understanding on the matter,” the AIFF said.
Jhingan is certain to miss FC Goa’s first two games in the AFC Champions League Two group stage, against Al Zawraa at home on Sept 17 and away to FC Istiklol in Tajikistan on Oct 1.