Cardiff Star's MRSA Nightmare

Cardiff City midfielder Riccy Scimeca is nearing a return to first team action having not played for the Bluebirds at all this season, and barely at all in 2007.


A long-standing groin problem had kept Scimeca sidelined but it was an infection which hit the former Notts Forest and WBA midfielder shortly before Christmas following surgery on the area. Riccy told the SW Echo:


'Scans revealed an infection from the second op I had, the wound had a slight tear and did not heal properly.'

'A staphylococcus (aureus) bug had crept into the wound which breeds beneath the skin.'


Staphylocci infections are usually cleased by the innate immune system, but in some cases thes strains are too aggressive and cause flare-ups and painful swellings. The condition is treatable with antibiotics but Scimeca was fortunate the infection was localised and did not spread.



'As soon as we found out in was an infection, I was immediately admitted to hospital where I spent 10 days just before Christmas.'

'I was absolutely exhausted both mentally and physically about the whole affair.'



We'd all love to see Riccy back and fighting for a place in the squad. Since his arrival at Ninian Park, he has excelled and played a big role for the team whenever fit. Hopefully he will be back and fit soon, and can challenge the current midfield duo of Rae and McPhail.