Belgian side Royal Antwerp insist they still have no decision on when or if they’ll reinstate ex-Roma midfielder Radja Nainggolan back into the team.
Two weeks ago, the 34 year-old was spotted smoking an e-cigarette on the bench ahead of the team’s 3-0 defeat to Standard Liege and was subsequently suspended indefinitely by the club.
“RAFC today had a conversation with Radja Nainggolan about his general functioning and about how certain behaviors reflect on the club and the group of players. The club has decided to expel Radja from the A-team indefinitely,” they announced on October 17th.
“Clear agreements have also been made about what our club does and does not expect from its player. Neither player nor club will comment further on this. The focus is once again shifting to our two important upcoming games against KV Oostende and KRC Genk.”
Immediately after the news, Nainggolan took to his official Instagram account to apologise for the incident writing, “The club has made a decision I can only accept, even though I think it might be a bit too severe for me. But I will try to contribute in one way or another.”
Earlier today, manager Mark van Bommel was asked if he’s considered reinstating Nainggolan or if a timeline has been established regarding a return to the pitch.
“I haven’t considered it (his reinstatement). This isn’t a question of how many weeks or games or anything else,” he said.
“We discussed the situation together and Radja knows what we expect from him. It’s a tough decision for all of us.”
Adding, “I played football so it’s a bit tougher for me because I completely understand how the players feels.”
Since his suspension, Nainggolan has been forced to train with the club’s B-team.
