“I became ill a couple of days after the Telkom Knockout Cup match against Mamelodi Sundowns,” reveals Wardle. Arrows lost that match 3-0.
“The weather in Durban was terrible at the time and must have caused my illness. However, I have since recovered and have been back at training for almost three weeks. I’m feeling fully fit again,” he says.
Wardle joined Arrows in early January from Santos. He missed the first two matches of the 2007/08 Absa Premier League due to an ankle injury, which was aggravated during pre-season.
But in the three League matches in which Wardle has kept goal so far this season - AmaZulu, Moroka Swallows, Orlando Pirates - Arrows gained seven points with the goalie in fine form.
Wardle says he is looking forward to their derby against Thanda Royal Zulu next Wednesday which will be played in Pietermaritzburg.
Wardle was born in Umzimkhulu, a 40-minute drive from Pietermaritzburg.
“It will feel like home,” Wardle remarks, adding that, “I’m looking forward to that match. I’m happy about my performances at training and I hope that the coach will consider starting with me in goal against Thanda, even though Nksosana Maseko did well during my illness.”
