Cech defied medical advice
15 Apr 2008 - 13:39:55
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- Cech defied medical advice
Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech has revealed he defied medical advice to play in Monday's 1-1 draw with Wigan Athletic.
The 25-year-old keeper made a quicker than expected return to action against the Latics less than ten days after sustaining a nasty facial injury in training which required 50 stitches.
Cech failed to stop the Blues' title challenge taking a huge knock after they dropped two points, but he has revealed he was desperate to return after seeing Carlo Cudicini also pick up an injury at the weekend.
The injury-plagued keeper, who had also missed the last six weeks with an ankle problem, took to the field at Stamford Bridge wearing a protective chin strap alongside his now customary head guard.
"It was a bit of a risk to decide to play this game but I have been missing football for such a long time," he told the club's official website.
"So when I got the protection for my face I decided to ask the docs if they would let me play.
"He was not completely happy about it but he respected my decision and it was good to be back on the pitch.
"I wanted to play. I wasn't forced to play and I had no fear before the game because I knew the wound was protected.
"I have had bad luck all season so I was hoping that nothing would go wrong this time.
"It was a little bit different for me to wear the mask but as I said in the end I was happy to be back on the pitch.
"The reaction from the fans was brilliant and when you come back after such a long time and you feel the people behind you it is a great boost."