Heart patient Stephan Lichtsteiner keeps banking job at bay

The qualified banker said he feared his playing career was over prior to undergoing heart surgery that sidelined him from the Juventus team for over a month.

Making an impact

The Swiss international returned to the fray in spectacular fashion by scoring the goal that secured a potentially crucial point for Juventus in their 1-1 Uefa Champions League draw with Borussia Monchengladbach on Tuesday. Juventus sit second in Group D, one point behind already-qualified Manchester City but five ahead of third-placed Spanish side Sevilla, with two fixtures remaining.

Confidence restored

As important as that goal was for Juve’s qualification chances, it meant even more than that to Lichtsteiner. The 31-year-old defender, who completed a banking apprenticeship while playing for Grasshopper in Switzerland’s top flight in 2000/01, believed his heart condition had ended his career.

Fears abated

Asked if he feared never playing football again, he said that was the case. “For sure. Prior to the operation I even feared the worst,” he said. “It wasn’t an easy time for me. A heart operation isn’t something you take lightly. But thankfully friends, family and fans gave me a lot of support – and not just Juventus fans. That’s the great thing about football.”

First sign of trouble

Lichtsteiner was sidelined after suffering breathing problems in a Serie A game against Frosinone in September. Tests revealed he was suffering from an atrial flutter that required an operation. He had only two training sessions in his legs prior to Tuesday’s game. “(Coach) Massimiliano Allegri asked me a couple of times how I felt. I said I felt good,” Lichtsteiner said.

Inspirational

If nothing else, Lichtsteiner’s struggles should serve as a lesson for Juve. From the highs of reaching last season’s Champions League final, the Italian champions and cup-holders have struggled on the domestic front this campaign. Ahead of this weekend’s trip to Empoli, they sit in 10th place, nine points adrift of leaders Fiorentina. “It’s crucial we all roll up our sleeves and get on with it,” Lichtsteiner said, “even if that means we have to put our game to the side and win ugly.”

Dr Afridi's warning signs of digital addiction

Spending an excessive amount of time on the phone.

Neglecting personal, social, or academic responsibilities.

Losing interest in other activities or hobbies that were once enjoyed.

Having withdrawal symptoms like feeling anxious, restless, or upset when the technology is not available.

Experiencing sleep disturbances or changes in sleep patterns.

What are the guidelines?

Under 18 months: Avoid screen time altogether, except for video chatting with family.

Aged 18-24 months: If screens are introduced, it should be high-quality content watched with a caregiver to help the child understand what they are seeing.

Aged 2-5 years: Limit to one-hour per day of high-quality programming, with co-viewing whenever possible.

Aged 6-12 years: Set consistent limits on screen time to ensure it does not interfere with sleep, physical activity, or social interactions.

Teenagers: Encourage a balanced approach – screens should not replace sleep, exercise, or face-to-face socialisation.

Source: American Paediatric Association