Steve Zakuani was in town today for a book signing of his new book 500 days.

On a visit to Starfire, he talked to our reporter John Zielonka about his birth in Congo and his life at Arsenal. He went ton to discuss the 500 day period of his rehab, which gave the book its title.

“The physical side was hard. Pushing my body to limits I never new it had. Mentally was just as tough. When you come back, what kind of player will you be. Those kind of questions were in my head. I fought a lot of demons during those times.”

“When I came back, I wasn’t quite the player I once was in the beginning. (My colleagues) were very patient with me. If I missed a pass or didn’t make a run, they would probably be a bit easy on me.”

Zakuani in fact has praise and gratitude for the entirety of the Sounders organization.

“The Sounders organization extends all the way to the fans, the Supporters Groups, people like Alan Hinton who are just legends in the Seattle community. We have a great relationship any time I see him, because, as a left winger from England, he was always complimenting me and giving me encouragement.”

He also talks very fondly about his return to Seattle as a Portland Timbers player.

“It was tremendous. I came back twice in one week. I got subbed out in the 60th or 70th minute and the whole stadium was cheering and they don’t cheer Portland players! I think that just shows the depth of bond I have with the fans. It’s never lost on me. I’m very grateful for it.”

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