David Brooks: Bournemouth Star Receives Standing Ovation After Making Comeback From Cancer

• David Brooks has featured for Bournemouth for the first time since September 2021
• The midfielder, out due to cancer, came off the bench in the clash against Aston Villa
• He becomes the second footballer in recent times to beat cancer and return to action

After an agonising 536 days away from the sport he loves, David Brooks finally made his comeback after recovering from cancer.

The Bournemouth midfielder was a second-half substitute in their Premier League game against Aston Villa over the weekend.

He last made an appearance on September 29, 2021 before he was diagnosed with stage two Hodgkin's lymphoma in October 2021.

The disease kept him out of action for a year-and-a-half.

Brooks makes an emotional return

Fernandez: Chelsea star rocks World Cup inspired gold chain

Football

Emotional scenes played out at the stadium, with both sets of fans at Villa Park treating Brooks to a standing ovation when he entered the fray in the 78th minute.

The home fans joined the Bournemouth support in recognising that life is often greater than football rivalry.

Brooks was an unused substitute in their huge 1-0 win over Liverpool last week.

After that game, he took to his social media handles and said:

"...Been a long wait and a very difficult period for me and my family, but to be able to step back on that football pitch and feel part of the team again was special! Thank you to all the fans for the great reception and hope you enjoyed that immense performance from the boys."

Bournemouth have supported the Welsh international throughout his health tribulations and handed him a fresh four-year contract last year.

He will now be hoping to ramp up his fitness and help the Cherries in their battle to avoid relegation.

Sheffield Utd strike late to reach FA Cup semi-finals

Football

Five footballers who beat cancer

Following Sebastian Haller's diagnosis last season, Sports Brief compiled a list of footballers who returned after cancer.

Ex-Bayern Munich danger man, Arjen Robben and Barcelona utility, Eric Abidal lead the list of those who returned to action.

Haller has since made a recovery and returned to playing for Borussia Dortmund, joining the list alongside Brooks.