Injured Fajardo drops by Gilas practice; Guiao appreciates gesture

He may be unable to play for the national team in its coming game, but that hasn’t stopped June Mar Fajardo from showing up at training.

The PBA’s reigning four-time MVP made a surprise appearance to show his support for the national team which is preparing for its game against Iran on September 13.

Head coach Yeng Guiao admitted that he didn’t invite Fajardo to attend and appreciated the giant’s gesture.

“We appreciate it very much and we know he wants to play but due to circumstances beyond his control he cannot but he showed his support and desire to be with the team,” said Guiao after the team’s practice at Meralco Gym.

“I don’t know who invited him, I didn’t invite him but he still came and that is very much appreciated,” added Guiao in Filipino.

Fajardo wasn’t chosen to be part of the team due to his fractured right shin that was diagnosed before the start of the 2018 PBA Governors’ Cup.

The injury left Fajardo lumbering with a boot encasing his right foot.

Guiao added that if not for the injury, Fajardo was a sure addition to the team.

“His visit is a way of showing that he’s concerned and he would’ve loved to play for this team and he would’ve been a shoo-in if he was healthy,” said Guiao.