Former Bidvest Wits and Maritzburg United goalkeeper Jethren Barr has been diagnosed with a chronic condition that prevents him from playing football.
The 29-year-old was last attached to the Irish Premier Division side Drogheda United and has not played since last year. He was crowned the Sports Direct FAI Cup champion with his side.
He played all the games at the 2023 edition of the COSAFA Cup until the semi-finals, where Bafana Bafana lost to Zambia. Barr took to his social media platforms on Wednesday to share the sad news with his followers.
BAFANA BAFANA GOALKEEPER EXPLAINS WHY HE HAS BEEN MISSING IN ACTION
“Over the past couple of months, I’ve been unwell and not able to return to playing football,” wrote Barr.
“The truth is, I have been diagnosed with a condition called Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome [ME/CFS].”
JETHREN BARR ASK FOR PRAYERS AS HE GOES THROUGH A DIFFICULT JOURNEY TO RECOVER FROM A CHRONIC CONDITION
The former Portadown remains optimistic that he will return to playing football, although it may take years before it happens.
“I’m currently working with a team of specialists to combat this condition and hopefully recover, which I am told can take a year,” he added.
“It’s a complex, often debilitating condition that affects how my body handles energy, rest, and even basic daily tasks. Some days are better than others, but it’s been a humbling and challenging journey.
“This is why I have taken a step back from my professional playing career. Truth be told, I have had to turn down an overwhelming number of offers to return to playing football, which was heartbreaking but necessary. I thank all those teams for their interest. I would appreciate your prayers.”
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