Manchester City midfielder Rodri insists his Ballon d'Or win is a "bottle of oxygen" in his injury recovery as he targets a return this season.

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• Rodri out with ACL injury
• Aiming to make stunning recovery
• Vinicius Jr beaten to award

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  WHAT HAPPENED?

  Rodri is currently sidelined with an ACL injury and has had to watch on as City have embarked on their worst-ever run under Pep Guardiola, failing to win any of their last six games. However, the Spain international is hoping to make a stunning comeback before the end of the season, and insists his Ballon d'Or win has only served to inspire him.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Rodri beat Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Junior to the most prestigious individual award in football, leading to a backlash from fans and team-mates of the Brazilian. Nevertheless, the defensive midfielder insists that his prize is a "bottle of oxygen" as he bids to find his way back onto the pitch.

• WHAT RODRI SAID

  Rodri told : "Everything seems to be going well with my rehab. It’s been good to spend time with my family here. The energy they give me is important, and a long time had passed since I was back at home. Because of my injury, the award has been like a bottle of oxygen for me."

  Regarding his return, he added: "I want to come back this season, that would be important for me. I don’t know if I can, but I’d like to be involved for a month or two and finish the season."

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  WHAT NEXT?

  City are next in action against Liverpool in what could prove to be a decisive game for their title ambitions. A defeat would see the Reds move 11 points clear of the champions at the top.

Tags: Futebol
Category: News