The Argentinian has beaten testicular cancer and is now back training with Newcastle
Much of what goes on in football these days is bad news, from diving to off-field shenanigans. So it is a great to have a positive news story doing the rounds today. Jonas Gutierrez’s diagnosis with testicular cancer was one of the real – genuine – low points of 2014 and it looks like the year will end with the best possible news about the winger’s future.
Speaking today, Newcastle boss Alan Pardew confirmed that Gutierrez is back in training with the Magpies and the manager reckons he should make what will be an ’emotional’ appearance again in the black and white stripes.
“Jonas is one of those people who livens up the training ground just by his personality,” Pardew is quoted in the Mirror as saying. “Of course, with him recovering from his illness, that’s been magnified.
“We are really pleased to have him back. He is finding his feet a little bit. He hasn’t been around the ball much, but he looks in pretty good shape. We hope in two or three weeks, he will be in and around us.
“He is keen to get back in amongst us and earn his right to play in the first team again.
“Like any player, I have got to give him an even keel, and he will get that. Now it is up to Jonas. I know one thing: it will be emotional for him, and for us, when he does return. We are all looking forward to it.”
The Argentinian international is in the final year of his contract with the club