How Borja Sainz and Jack Wilshere reacted to Norwich City update from Ante Crnac | OneFootball

Ante Crnac is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines after confirming ACL surgery

Borja Sainz and Jack Wilshere have both sent best wishes to their former Norwich City colleague Ante Crnac following confirmation of his ACL surgery.

The 21-year-old suffered a significant injury during the Canaries’ recent 1-0 loss to Derby County, which is likely to keep him out of action for the rest of the campaign.

This comes as a big blow to Liam Manning’s side given the forward’s importance to the squad, with Crnac featuring in each of their opening 11 games.

The Croatian joined the Championship side in the 2024 summer transfer window, and he made 38 league appearances in his first year at Carrow Road, contributing seven goals and four assists.

But his second season with the club has now been cut short, with the team struggling for form and Manning’s position as manager under serious threat.

Ante Crnac confirms ACL surgery

Crnac has posted to social media a message to supporters confirming that he underwent successful ACL surgery, for which he thanked his doctor for the care he’s received.

He’s revealed his commitment to coming back even stronger in the near future, calling the last few days some of the toughest of his entire career so far.

“The past few days have been some of the hardest in my career, but I’m thankful that my ACL surgery went well,” wrote Crnac, via his Instagram account.

“I’m deeply grateful to Dr. Andy Williams for his care, to my family and friends for always being by my side, and above all to God for giving me the strength to face this challenge.

“Every setback is a lesson, and I believe this journey will make me stronger.

“I’ll be back soon, with even more hunger and determination.

“See y’all on the pitch soon.”

Wilshere issued a response to Crnac, having previously worked with the player as a coach at Norwich last season, wishing him well.

“Get well soon, Antre,” responded the Luton Town boss.

Meanwhile, former teammate Sainz replied with a blue heart, raising hands and prayer hands emojis.

Sainz and Wilshere are no longer involved with the Norfolk outfit, whose form has nosedived this season.

The Canaries are currently 23rd in the Championship table, two points adrift of safety after 12 games.

Next up for Norwich is a home clash against Hull City on Saturday in a 12.30pm kick-off.

Ante Crnac absence is a blow for Norwich

Crnac is clearly well liked by the people he’s worked with at Norwich based on the response to his significant injury setback.

It comes as a big blow for Manning to lose him at this stage of the season, and for so long, given how important he’s been for the club since joining.

The team’s current run of form is dismal, and the manager needs all hands on deck in order to turn things around.

He will be wondering what could’ve been had he been able to keep Sainz in the squad, instead of the winger getting sold to Porto in the summer.