Irish star hails Aspetar facilities

Andrews, a defensive midfielder for Bolton Wanderers and the Republic of Ireland national team, was in the hospital for three weeks. He will return for another three-week programme at the end of the month.

“I have to admit that the entire Aspetar team has been wonderful - the nurses, sports physicians, physiotherapists, player liaisons, radiologists, everyone. I’ve been treated very well and am impressed with the amount of talent found here,” Andrews said on his first visit to Qatar.

“Vince Grella, the former Australian professional footballer, had recommended Aspetar. I also have some friends working with Manchester City FC who suggested that I receive treatment here. The hospital has a great reputation in the sports medicine industry.”

Despite remaining relatively injury-free during his career, Andrews has been plagued by an Achilles injury over the past few months. Following treatment at Aspetar, he hopes to quickly return to the game, “My priority now is to get fit and as strong as I can to be ready for the next season. Hopefully, I’ll be back on the field soon.”

Andrews wishes to return in the near future, “I find the Qatari culture fascinating. From the minute I stepped off the plane, I was in awe. I hope to return to Qatar someday, not as a patient but as a player for one of the country’s exceptional teams.”

In 2009, Aspetar was officially accredited as a FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence (F-Marc).