Scott McTominay has opened up about the health scare that rocked his World Cup preparations as the Scotland star prepares to undergo heart surgery.
The Napoli midfielder will have a corrective ablation procedure after being diagnosed with a mild, benign arrhythmia. He is expected to be sidelined until after the international break, with the Serie A side confirming the issue will require surgery.
But McTominay insists he has no concerns over the operation and has vowed to return “stronger than before”. Speaking to Corriere della Sera, the former Manchester United midfielder said: “No, it’s a problem I have to deal with. I’ve only just found out about the operation.
“But we’ll see each other soon, very soon. Stronger than before.”
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McTominay also revealed he suffered a difficult episode in the build-up to Scotland’s opening World Cup match, when he was left unsure whether he would even be fit enough to play. He said: “Yes, and it was much harder. Two days before the first match I felt unwell and didn’t know whether I’d play or not.
“It was tough to prepare myself mentally. Then, the high temperatures made the situation even more difficult. Looking back, it’s a huge regret of my career.”
The 29-year-old began Napoli’s season in their first two Serie A fixtures but now faces a spell on the sidelines, including a Champions League clash with Arsenal.
McTominay admitted it is frustrating to be unable to help his team during a major run of games, but believes Napoli have the quality to cope without him.
He added: “I’d always like to contribute to the team, but there are things that are unpredictable and beyond our control. My teammates will be focused.”
