Luton star Nakamba’s return uncertain as knee inju...

Luton star Nakamba’s return uncertain as knee injury lingers

Philemon Jambaya

Luton Town midfielder Marvelous Nakamba faces an uphill battle to return before the end of the season, casting doubt on his availability for Zimbabwe’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

Luton manager, Rob Edwards expressed concerns about Nakamba’s recovery progress, hinting that the player might miss the remainder of the campaign. This casts a shadow over his participation in the Warriors’ next World Cup qualifier against Lesotho on June 3.

Nakamba sustained a knee injury while representing Zimbabwe in November’s World Cup qualifiers. Despite posting a video showcasing light training and expressing optimism about his return, Edwards painted a different picture.

“He’s still in the very early stages of recovery,” Edwards told Luton Today. “Whether we get him back before the end of the season, it’s still very touch and go.”

The manager acknowledged the long-term nature of the injury, stating: “It has always been a concern since he did it. We always said it was going to go deep into it and it was going to be months.”

Nakamba, who permanently joined Luton Town from Aston Villa this season, has already missed nine matches due to the injury. His absence is a significant blow for both club and country.

While Nakamba remains determined, with his social media statement, “The comeback is always stronger than the setback. See you soon,” Edwards emphasised caution.

“He’s working hard, but it’s all very, very early stages, biking and things like that now,” the manager said.

Nakamba’s availability for the upcoming international fixtures remains uncertain, leaving both the Luton Town faithful and Zimbabwean football fans waiting anxiously for his return.