MANILA – Defender Alexander “Aly” Borromeo could have been one of the prominent booters to don the Philippines national football team’s colors, but various injuries really do hamper playing careers.
The 36-year-old believes that he could have played more for the Azkals if not of the series of setbacks he got since 2011 – two anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and one meniscus tears.
In the world of football, some professional players were forced to retire early due to ACL injuries.
“It was really tough. I almost hung up my boots,” said the former Azkals team captain during a CPT Crossover podcast of Bacolodnon sports writer Cedelf Tupas.
He added: “I tore my ACL twice and also had a meniscus injury. On my own during recovery, I was depressed. I was crying and I couldn’t really talk about football then.”
A national team member since 2004, Borromeo attempted to return to competitive football by swearing his services to Kaya Futbol Club-Iloilo but did not last long. He was later appointed as team manager of the club.
“I played (again) but it was never the same,” the Filipino-American said. “I think that is something that I could always take pride and share with other players. I did not want to leave the game limping.”
Borromeo said even though he failed to maximize the opportunity playing for the flag during his years, he is still glad to have paved the way for current players and coaches.
“We made such an impact that time, and you don’t realize those things until after you retire,” said Borromeo, who also had a stint with the now defunct Global Football Club./PN
