Former captain of the national volleyball team Vlado Nikolov clarified the condition of his son Simeon Nikolov, who suffered an injury during the last playoff match for third place in Russia against Zenit St. Petersburg. According to him, the situation is not as worrying as it seemed at first.
"The situation with Moni is the lesser evil. It's a strain," Nikolov commented specifically forvolleyweek.bg.
What is the injury
From the father's words, it becomes clear that the problem is localized in the upper part of the body.
"A strain of the pectoralis major muscle, accompanied by a spasm in the latissimus dorsi and the musculature stabilizing the scapula. A serious cramp has occurred - a protective reaction of the body," Nikolov explained.
The situation developed during the third game of the second match between Zenit St. Petersburg and Lokomotiv Novosibirsk, with the score 15:14 for the hosts, when a double substitution was made and Simeon Nikolov left the court.
Current information
Vlado Nikolov emphasized that the data he has is from yesterday and currently there is no confirmation after the latest examinations.
"This is information from yesterday. I haven't spoken with Moni yet to have more fresh information," he specified.
Prognosis and recovery
Initial indications are rather optimistic, although without final confirmation.
"According to yesterday's information, it shouldn't be more than 10 days. This is a strained muscle, not a tear - thankfully. If it were torn, it would be completely different already," Nikolov emphasized.
In less than a year, Simeon Nikolov has played over 70 matches, including his participations in the NCAA, the national team, and the Russian Super League, where he has over 30 matches behind him, combined with difficult transitions and long travels, which further burden the body.
Impact on the national team
The injury also raises questions about the young setter's participation in the national team, but for now, expectations are that the break will not be long.
"The rest with the national team will be about a week," Vlado Nikolov added.
The situation around Simeon Nikolov currently appears controllable, but there are still unknowns due to the lack of up-to-date information from today. The strain in the chest and back area, combined with a protective muscle spasm, does not suggest a long absence, but the final assessment will become clear after further contact and examinations.
More clarity regarding the condition of one of the key players for the Bulgarian national team is expected in the coming hours.
