How Van Dooren's Knee Injury Changed Him: “For Me, the Biggest Lesson”
Introduction
Belgian defender Zinho Van Dooren has spoken about how his serious knee injury at Vitesse changed him as a player and a person. The 23-year-old suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee in October 2021, an injury that ruled him out for the rest of the season.
The Injury and the Impact
Van Dooren was playing in a UEFA Conference League match against Tottenham Hotspur when he was injured. He collided with Spurs striker Harry Kane and immediately felt the pain in his knee. It was a devastating blow for the young defender, who had been in excellent form for Vitesse.
The injury required surgery and a long period of rehabilitation. Van Dooren missed the rest of the season and was unable to play for Belgium at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. It was a tough time for the defender, but he says that the experience has changed him for the better.
Learning from the Injury
Van Dooren says that the injury taught him a lot about himself. He learned how to deal with adversity and how to stay positive even in the darkest of times. He also learned the importance of hard work and dedication.
“The injury was a big setback for me, but it also taught me a lot about myself,” Van Dooren said. “I learned how to deal with adversity and how to stay positive even in the darkest of times. I also learned the importance of hard work and dedication.”
Return to Action
Van Dooren returned to action for Vitesse in August 2022. He has played in every game for the club since his return and has been in excellent form. He has helped Vitesse to the top of the Eredivisie table and has also played in the UEFA Europa Conference League.
The defender is grateful to be back playing again and says that he is enjoying his football more than ever before. “It feels great to be back playing again,” Van Dooren said. “I’m enjoying my football more than ever before. I’m just happy to be out there playing and helping the team.”
Conclusion
Van Dooren’s knee injury was a major setback, but it has also been a learning experience for the defender. He has come back stronger and more determined than ever before. He is now one of the best young defenders in the Eredivisie and is a key player for Vitesse.