Former Colombia striker makes comeback aged 46

Bogota: Former Colombia striker Anthony de Avila is making a comeback with America de Cali at the age of 46 after a decade out of soccer, the player announced on Wednesday.The 1.57-metre (5ft 3in) striker nicknamed Pitufo (Smurf) retired when he was playing for Barcelona in neighbouring Ecuador, having won seven Colombian league titles with America.

"My real motivation is to have a farewell match as an active player...I didn`t get the chance then (10 years ago) but it`s working out now," De Avila, who said he has kept fit and is ready to play competitively, told reporters. De Avila, who played for Colombia at the 1994 and 1998 World Cups, is America`s all-time top scorer with 201 goals and their fans` greatest idol. Bureau Report