Called this at the start of the season and I was dubbed a spastic over it... I'd like to see where those people are now
It's a shame, i'd never wish this upon a player and I don't think any of us WISH Rio would have back issues, but the fact of the matter is when these persistant injuries started, it was only going to accelerate the end of his career.
The timing is gutting for him, especially considering Fabio finally got it right and Rio will be leading England to South Africa this summer, you can bet your botton dollar Rio is chomping at the bit to play there, and he must be gutted that he may not even be the most fit for the event.
I for one hope Smalling adds to our backline to the point he could be a direct and effective replacement... If not, Evans-Vidic should suffice in the short term at least.