May 20, 2016 By Sahr Morris Jr.
Sierra Leone and D.C. United striker Alhaji ‘Andriano’ Kamara has said he was always positive even after he was told about a congenital heart defect which almost ended his football career.
In February this year, the forward was told by the European football governing body, UEFA, he would not be allowed to play football due to heart problem, but in less than three months the former FC Kallon striker was cleared by two U.S. cardiologists to play football after several medical examinations.
It was positive news for the 22-year-old and in an interview with Washington Posts’ Steven Goff, the striker said he had always remained positive and that the initial diagnosis did not worry him.
“I was always positive,” said Kamara, “If everyone else gives up, I will be the last person to believe.”
According to the striker, no member of his family has a history of heart problems. He also revealed that when the issue first arose, he encouraged his agent Patrick Mork to pursue opportunities elsewhere with knowledge of undergo additional testing.
On whether he is afraid of playing again, the youngster said: “If I am afraid, I wouldn’t be out there training again, they would never give me permission to play if there was any risk.”
Meanwhile, it is unclear when the striker will make his D.C United debut as he admitted that having been out of effective football action, he does not expect to be at full fitness for a few more weeks.