De Boeck stops for surgery
Tuesday, May 6, 2003
Article summary
RSC Anderlecht captain Glen De Boeck will not play again this season as he requires cartilage surgery.
Article body
RSC Anderlecht captain Glen De Boeck will not play again this season after finally deciding to undergo surgery on a cartilage problem.
Longstanding problem
The Belgian international defender has had a longstanding problem with his right knee but was keen to play on until the end of the season. After consulting a specialist in Antwerp, Dr Marc Martens, however, the decision was taken to have the operation now.
Second place now secured
Anderlecht have already secured second place in the Belgian league - and with it a place in the UEFA Champions League qualifiers next season - after the 4-0 home victory over KFC Germinal Beerschot Antwerpen in which De Boeck scored.
Surgery next Monday
"It is better for him to end the season now, to be fit again at the start of the new season," coach Hugo Broos said. The 31-year-old De Boeck will undergo surgery next Monday and he is expected to be fully recovered by 30 June, when Anderlecht begin their pre-season preparations.
