Jonas Gutierrez 'thought career was over' after cancer battle and thanks Newcastle fans
Sunday 24 May 2015 18:45, UK
Jonas Gutierrez paid tribute to Newcastle fans after a 2-0 win over West Ham secured their Premier League status - and admitted he thought he thought his football career was over after a cancer battle.
The 31-year-old, who returned to action this season after a battle with testicular cancer, scored with just five minutes remaining on what could be his final game for the club.
Speaking about the win to Sky Sports after the final whistle, Gutierrez said: “It’s enormous. All the love they showed to me through my illness. Newcastle were fantastic with me and with the team.
"To be honest they don’t deserve to have this problem, to be in this situation now. Newcastle is bigger than this and we have had to look forward. This club has to be looking for the top 10 and not to the bottom."
However, it was more than just avoiding relegation that gave the Argentine a reason to celebrate.
He added: “To be honest a few months ago I didn’t know if I would be able to play football again. I’m here, I’m back, and I’m enjoying playing football. I have a second chance in my life. It was fantastic being here in the stadium today.”
