Nantes winger Moses Simon set for surgery to address ankle pain

Nantes head coach Antoine Kombouaré has confirmed that Nigerian international Moses Simon will undergo surgery in the coming days to resolve persistent ankle pain stemming from a previous injury.

Simon, who fractured his fibula last season, has been grappling with the aftereffects of the injury despite initial treatment.

The 29-year-old missed the final two months of the 2023-24 campaign and has struggled with recurring discomfort this term, even after having a plate and screws removed from the affected area.

“Moses had the plate and screws removed from his ankle and fibula because he had been in a lot of pain recently,” Kombouaré told Ouest-France.

“We are taking advantage of this period, with the short break coming up, to have him undergo this operation.

It will give him two weeks before he can calmly resume with the group. It was really a necessary operation for him.”

The surgery comes at a critical time as Ligue 1 is on a winter break, with Nantes next scheduled to play Lille on January 4.

However, the team will compete in the Coupe de France against Drancy on December 21, a match Simon will miss as he recovers.

Despite his physical challenges, Simon has been a key contributor for the Canaries this season, recording four goals and five assists in 14 league appearances.

His absence will be a blow to the team as they aim to maintain momentum in both domestic and cup competitions.

Kombouaré expressed confidence in Simon’s recovery, emphasizing the importance of addressing the issue during this relatively quiet period in the calendar.

The club is hopeful that the surgery will provide long-term relief and allow the winger to return to peak form for the remainder of the season.

Nantes fans will eagerly await Simon’s return as he continues to play a pivotal role in their campaign.

For now, the focus remains on ensuring a successful surgery and a smooth recovery.