David Brooks has made a heart-warming return to Bournemouth training after overcoming his cancer battle.
The Cherries winger was diagnosed with stage two Hodgkin’s lymphoma in October 2021.
But Brooks announced in May he is now cancer free – and the newly promoted Premier League club hailed his long-awaited return after he joined in their pre-season physical testing on Saturday.
David Brooks has made a heartwarming return to Bournemouth training after beating cancer
The Welsh winger (centre) joined in the Cherries’ pre-season physical testing on Saturday
The club tweeted: ‘Things you love to see. Great to see you back amongst things, @DRBrooks15,’ followed by a waving emoji.
The video footage shows Brooks greeting the camera operator, entering the gym, joking he is ‘out of breath’ after ten jumps, and doing some squatting and stretching.
Scott Parker’s side finished second last campaign, two points behind champions Fulham, to gain promotion from the Championship, with Brooks making nine appearances in all competitions and scoring three goals.
And the 24-year-old is now taking the first steps on his road to full fitness by getting a full pre-season under his belt.
The Welsh winger was diagnosed in October 2021, but revealed in May he is now cancer free
And Brooks is now targeting a spot at the Qatar World Cup 2022, which begins in November
Brooks, a 21-cap Wales international, after returning for his club, is then aiming to join up with Rob Page’s side for the Qatar World Cup which kicks off in November.
Bournemouth team-mate Chris Mepham said: ‘There’s no hiding it’s been a really tough and a long road for David and his family… he lifts the place with his story. It really does put things into perspective.
‘As a team it’s amazing that we can give him something to look forward to. But it’s a realistic aim for him to have in his head to get back for the World Cup. Hopefully he can showcase himself at that level again.
‘He’s got to listen to his body and make sure he is ticking off all the check lists he needs. But realistically he’s got a couple of months to build up his fitness and his body back up. Providing he does that, I’m sure he will be in a good place come November.’