Jack Bird ACL injury: Brisbane Broncos gun issues message to fans
UPDATE: Incredible photos from Broncos training have revealed the exact moment Jack Bird’s NRL season was left in tatters, as the luckless star issued an amazing message of hope. SEE THE POST
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A shattered Jack Bird has apologised to Broncos fans for his season-ending setback but insists his latest serious knee injury will not break him as he fights to salvage his NRL career.
In an emotional post on his social-media account, Bird spoke of the split-second moment his world caved in when he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament at training in the lead-up to Friday’s round-one derby against the Cowboys.
Bird is facing his second knee reconstruction in 10 months and while the 24-year-old is gutted at playing just 17 NRL games in three season, he implored Brisbane supporters not to lose faith in him.
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“I honestly don’t know what to say, it’s like my whole world has come crumbling down,” Bird said.
“I started my day confident, happy and full of excitement knowing that round one was just two days away.
“My body was in the best shape it had been in the last three years.
“It was also the happiest I have been in the two-to-three years enjoying my footy and life again.
“People who know me know how hard I have worked to get to the stage I was at leading into the season, and with that, I’m truly heartbroken that I have to start this process all over again.
“After two season-ending injuries in my first two years at the club it definitely hasn’t gone to plan and I’m sorry for that. I understand that a lot of the fans are upset with me over the last few seasons but injuries are definitely something I can’t control. I pray that you guys stick by me through this tough period of my life.
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“I promise that I’ll do everything I can to get back on the pitch for not only my self but for the club and the fans.
“If there is one thing you don’t know about me it’s that I will never give up and I am resilient like no other. I know for a fact that I will be back.
“I love you all, see you next season with a bang.”
Bird, who has been one of Brisbane’s best trainers in pre-season, was making a regulation run when his left knee buckled under the weight of teammate Tom Dearden in a tackle.
Broncos coach Anthony Seibold vowed the club would stand by the luckless former NSW Origin star.
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“The club will do our best to help Jack in his recovery and personal wellbeing and provide him with everything he needs,” Seibold said.
“Rugby league is a cruel game sometimes.
“Jack’s commitment to his rehabilitation has been unwavering in his return from his last knee injury.
“He has had a tremendous pre-season and he ticked all the boxes required for a great start to the year.
“He had trialled really well in the fullback position and was excited to be playing in the first game of the season.
“All of his teammates and the staff at the Broncos are devastated at the timing and nature of the injury.”
Originally published as Jack Bird ACL injury: Brisbane Broncos gun issues message to fans