Ryan Edwards, the footballing world salutes you
Every so often, there is a footballing story that puts a smile on everyone’s face, regardless of alleigances. It’s rare, but beautiful.
Ryan Edwards’ comeback is exactly that. The Plymough Argyle defender scored the opening goal today against Walsall today in his first competitive appearance since recovering from testicular cancer.
1-0. Guess who?#pafc pic.twitter.com/PsBqo1yVFJ
— Plymouth Argyle FC (@Argyle) August 4, 2018
The 24-year-old was diagnosed with cancer back in January, and continued to play a few games while ill, and even scored against Doncaster Rovers.
Edwards then underwent chemotherapy and was given the all clear in April. Since then, he has battled hard to regain his fitness and marked his return to the field in the perfect way this afternoon as he volleyed home Argyle’s first goal of the season.
There was not a dry eye in the away end at the Bescot Stadium as the young defender celebrated in front of the travelling fans.
Edwards recently spoke about his current condition, and explained how he feels fitter than expected.
“I’ve come back in better shape than I thought I would have,” he said.
“I worked hard over the summer so I knew I’d come back in good shape, but looking at my results for running and the strength tests I’m over the moon.”
As heartwarming as his story is, Edwards is keen not to let it have too much of a bearing over how he thinks while playing for Argyle.
“If it was down to me I’d put it behind me now and completely forget about it and just crack on with football,” he said.
The Pilgrims finished just outside the League One play-offs last season after a late surge up the table, but having kept hold of star player Graham Carey, they will be hopeful of breaking into the top six this time around.
