Update: Bernard Parker on his return post Bongani Zungu tackle

Speaking on Metro FM’s Sports Night Amplified, the former Bafana Bafana international told host Andile Ncube doctors have said he should be able to play again around February. 

READ: Rulani lifts lid on Sundowns handling of Bernard Parker incident

“My chances are high – and I still have a contract to honour, which ends in June. The doctors say I can be playing by February/March, so I am focusing on my recovery the best way I can,” Parker explained.

The incident happened during the Carling Knockout Cup round of 16 tie between Galaxy and Sundowns at the Mbombela Stadium on October 18 and this was the first time Parker publicly commented the tackle. 

“My chairman at TS Galaxy [Tim Sukazi] said to me as long as the club exists I’ve got a place there. My coach, Sead Ramovic, said he feels I still have three years left in me at this level and at this age," he revealed.

"He said I give people tough times and still get Man of the Match performances. I feed off that positive energy. I believe in my strong mind that ‘Die Hond’ will be back on the field.” 

Parker added he’d forgiven Zungu, but is of the opinion the Sundowns star intentionally meant to break his leg. 

When Ncube asked if there was malice in the tackle, Parker replied by saying “I think so, I analysed the whole situation.”   

“Our first goal, Bongani was involved. The second goal Bongani was involved. There was a buildup of emotions as well from him and it built up to that.

"It was a 50/50 pass. I got to the ball first and when I touched it to go past him, he came full force – he was late and went over the ball. If he did go for the ball, my ankle would have broken, if he missed it – as he did – my ankle would have been broken.

"But now my shin is broken, which basically says he went over the ball. This has happened to a lot of players, maybe I am the unlucky one at this moment. I am not angry at all.” 

Parker arrived at the SABC studios walking with some assistance from crutches. 

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