Vic Manuel much-awaited return took another setback when he missed Alaska's opening assignment in the PBA Commissioner's Cup due to an injured right calf.
Manuel suffered the injury while practicing with the team last week, prompting him to sit out the Aces' 111-98 win over the Columbian Dyip at the Mall of Asia Arena.
The 31-year-old had been planning for months to make a return in the midseason tournament before his latest injury.
"Sobrang naiinip na ako, nanggigil na ako," said Manuel, who last played in December when Alaska lost to Magnolia in last season's Governors' Cup Finals.
"Gusto ko nang maglaro e, parang three weeks na akong nagpapractice at nakakabalik na ako sa kundisyon tas biglang nagkaproblema sa right leg ko. Medyo nakakafrustrate lang," he added.
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The power forward is hoping to finish his rehab before the weekend and finally rejoin the Aces after missing most part of last season with a back injury.
Aside from rehab, Manuel is also working on his conditioning to ensure he'll be in top shape when he rejoins the team.
Alaska coach Alex Compton said Manuel's return will add depth and make the Aces bettersult to positive results for his team.
"Siguro pagbalik ni Muscleman sobrang maskulado na siya, baka sumali yan sa Mr. Philippines," Compton said in jest. (JT)
