Defender Alfie Kilgour says his goal of being back on the pitch in a Mansfield Town shirt ‘motivates him every day’ as the centre-back continues to recover from a ruptured Achilles’ tendon.
The 25-year-old signed an 18-month contract extension at the club today, which will see him remain at One Call Stadium until the end of the 2024/25 season.
A January signing in 2023, Alfie will miss the rest of this season with his long-term injury but is undergoing his rehabilitation in aim of returning for pre-season.
Speaking to iFollow Stags, the former Bristol Rovers’ man said: “It’s not easy – having such a big injury can be scary.
“Psychologically, I have just tried to stay strong, stay motivated and have that goal in my head of being back on the pitch and back in a Mansfield shirt.
“That’s what motivates me every day.
“It’s not easy but you have to realise there’s more to life.
“I’m a friend, I’m a son, I’m a brother to people and I have to have more to life than just being Alfie Kilgour the footballer.”
On his new 18-month contract extension, he said: “I’m absolutely delighted [and] thrilled.
“It’s about a year ago to the day that I walked through the doors [of RH Academy] and since that moment I’ve had nothing but love, welcoming arms and appreciation so I’m delighted to get my new contract.
“Credit to John and Carloyn [Radford] for showing trust and loyalty.
“I’m really pleased and happy.”
Providing an insight into life away from the training pitch, Alfie added: “To put it simply; it has been tough, mentally tough.
“For any player that gets injured, it’s a tough time.
“You lose your bit of independence and obviously it was touch and go whether it was going to be okay.
“I’ve had my operation and it feels strong and solid and I can’t wait to get that physical work in.
“It has been three months of being non-weight baring on my leg, immobilisation they call it to let the tendon heal.
“I can’t wait to get in the gym and get my rehab going and getting back strong to hopefully be back on the pitch.”
The defender went on to describe an average day of recovery.
“I try and have my routine but basically I do my band work for my Achilles’, compex on my calf and a few light stretches and then I do a gym session.
“It’s a bit of a routine but there’s not too much I can do at this moment in time.
“It’s just [about] letting time heal the body.”
Despite his absence, Mansfield are enjoying a superb campaign.
“I think the lads have been absolutely incredible this season to only lose two games in the league,” he said.
“They’ve played with such bravery – sticking together.
“Every player that has come in has done absolutely brilliantly.
“I’m proud of the team and hopefully we can have a big push until the end of the season.”
