Liverpool star Lallana praises sports medicine facilities in Qatar

Liverpool and England midfielder Adam Lallana is aiming for a swift return to action after undergoing treatment at Aspetar sports medicine hospital in Doha.The 29-year-old has been out of action since injuring his thigh in August but hopes to return in November. Lallana said he’d been mightily impressed with the medical facilities in Qatar.“I’ve really benefitted from spending time at Aspetar,” Lallana told SC.qa. “I’ve worked hard since being here and met a number of physiotherapists and experts, with all of them helping me to recover as quickly as possible. The facilities here are first class – it’s great for Liverpool to have a close relationship with Aspetar.”Lallana was also asked about competing for England during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar but says he’s focussed purely on next summer’s tournament in Russia.“There are still five years until Qatar, so it’s too early to think about it from a playing point of view,” said Lallana. “All my focus at the moment is on Russia 2018. We did a great job in qualifying and my job now is to be fit at the right time. I want to return stronger for Liverpool and make sure I’m picked for the squad next summer.”Lallana and England will be aiming to improve on performances at recent FIFA World Cup tournaments. England reached the last 16 in South Africa in 2010 before crashing out in the group stage in Brazil four years later.Lallana will also be hoping to boost Liverpool, who lost 4-1 to Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday. He’s one of several prominent players currently out injured for the Anfield side, along with the likes of Sadio Mane, Georginio Wijnaldum and Nathaniel Clyne. (SC.qa)