My first 3 years or so of 5-a-side gave me numerous calf strains, quad strains, sore hammies, and all sorts of little niggles. None of which were 're-injuries'.
Then I lost some weight and got fitter (not necessarily fit, just less un-fit). The next 2 years of 5-a-side were completely injury free (and 're-injury' free) despite playing more and running more.
I wouldn't suggest that Ifill was the picture of health in his first season either. He seems to constantly hobble between plays, he's clearly just not a fit kinda guy. Ricki said he's the worst trainer he's seen, that is very telling.
I see what you're saying and agree there's merit in it, but Ifill is not very fit and probably never has been - you can't honestly say that wouldn't have any impact on his body.
Soft-tissue damage is slightly different - generally easier to recover from. If you look in my original post I was talking about structural damage (i.e. bones and connective tissue injuries) which are probably more common in football.