Doha, Qatar (March 19, 2014) –Moroccan international footballer Marouane Chamakh is currently undergoing intensive treatment at Aspetar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, following an injury sustained a fortnight ago while playing for English club Crystal Palace during a Premier League match. Former Arsenal striker Chamakh chose Aspetar for his treatment as he is hoping to make a quick return to the field and join his Palace teammates who are fighting hard to stay in the English Premier League. The centre forward has proven to be an exceptionally popular signing, having joined ‘The Eagles’ at the start of the season, and his strong form has been instrumental in Crystal Palace’s valiant attempts to climb out of the Premier League’s relegation zone. Mr Chamakh said:

“Aspetar has a great reputation internationally, and many friends I have in football recommended that I should come here. I chose the hospital as it has tremendous capabilities and an exclusive expertise in sports medicine. I feel comfortable about the treatment plan and am hoping to make a quick return to the field”.

Chamakh added: “The facilities are exceptional. I have never been to Qatar before but I have heard many good things about Aspetar. As soon as you enter the hospital, you feel the comfort, the great reception and, most importantly, the exclusive expertise in treating athletes.”. Dr Hakim Chalabi, Acting Chief Medical Officer at Aspetar and the Executive Director of the National Sports Medicine Programme commented:

“We consistently strive to provide the best care and support for athletes in order for them to reach their full potential. Marouane Chamakh is a distinguished player and we will do our utmost to help him return to the football field again soon”.

Chamakh suffered a thigh injury in the recent 1-1 draw between Crystal Palace and Swansea, and was forced to withdraw from the Moroccan national squad in advance of their friendly match against Gabon that took place three days later, losing the chance to add to his impressive tally of 63 international caps. Despite this setback, he is determined to regain his fitness as quickly as possible. “I have never suffered any major injuries during my career, or any injuries that have kept me away from the fields for a long time. I think this is the worst injury in my career, as I feel pain in my thigh. But it will not prevent me from returning to continue the season with my club,” he said. Chamakh explained: “I put my full trust in Aspetar as many fellow professionals have been successfully treated here, including my Algerian teammate Adlan Guedioura who quickly regained full fitness following his time here. The evidence is clear and makes me even more confident about a quick return to my club to play for the rest of the season.”