Abdoulie Bamba Sanyang has suffered an injury while on international duty with Gambia, dealing a significant blow to HNK Hajduk Split ahead of a critical run of fixtures. The winger was forced off in the 59th minute of his country's 4-2 win over Ghana in Africa Cup of Nations qualifying.
"Bamba had a painful expression when leaving the field and was holding his hamstring," the player said. Given the nature of the injury, a period on the sidelines is expected, reducing manager Gonzalo Garcia's options on the flanks at a key point in the season.
Bamba started for Gambia in the match in Accra and was part of the side that fought back from a 2-0 deficit. After his substitution, the hosts scored two more goals to complete the comeback. The injury occurred during this key period. There is no official diagnosis or estimated recovery time yet, with the club awaiting detailed medical reports.
At this stage of the season, Bamba had become a regular starter for Hajduk. He started the last three league matches before the international break and provided the assist for the only goal in the 1-0 win over Slaven Belupo on September 12. In eight HNL appearances this season he has one goal and one assist, featuring in 15 matches in all competitions. His potential absence will be keenly felt in the derby against Dinamo Zagreb at Poljud on October 10, and again just five days later in the Conference League opener against Ajax.
Hajduk currently sit 4th in the HNL with 10 points, just two behind leaders Osijek. The club's next fixture is an away trip to Istra 1961 on October 24, but all thoughts are now on the fitness of their important wide player. The team is in good form, with a run of three wins and two draws in their last five official matches. Check the current schedule and league table on our fixtures and standings pages.
First reported at Index.hr Sport
