Emotions and the belief that nothing is impossible overshadowed the score sheet in Newcastle on Wednesday night.
Whereas Newcastle may not have gotten any points against Manchester United at St James’ Park, in a way, it really didn’t matter.
After a difficult couple of years, the Argentine winger Jonas Gutierrez made a long-awaited comeback for Newcastle F.C. last night.
The 31-year-old, whose nickname is often referred to as Spider-Man, was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2013, but fought his way back and came on as a late substitute during Wednesday’s Premier League round against giants Manchester United.
Last autumn Gutierrez had to undergo a chemotherapy, a treatment of chemical substances, which among other things causes a loss of hair.
“When I first saw him I was really concerned, but I suppose that’s natural because he has come from a serious illness.
“To actually come back and play in the Premier League again would be magnificent. He’s had a hard fight,” Newcastle manager John Carver said before he included the Argentine in the squad for the first time since 2013 ahead of the Aston Villa game last weekend.
There is no doubt that Gutierrez’ return to the Premier League side is an astonishing comeback. Having fought for his life, he is back on the pitch again, competing at the top level in English football.
His return was received by a standing ovation by the nearly 50,000 spectators present at St James’ Park, and club captain Fabricio Coloccini showed his appreciation of his countryman by giving him the captain’s armband for the remainder of the game.
The Argentine himself was left emotional speaking to the media after the game.
“I will remember the reception for the rest of my life,” he told BBC Sport.
Newcastle may not have won the game against Manchester United last night, but in many ways Gutierrez was a winner the moment he set his foot on the green grass again.
The Story: Jonas Gutierrez praises support after Newcastle cancer comeback