I wasn’t prepared to risk my recovery

Athletic’s star striker writes every week for Chron Sport


THE LIVERPOOL game is one too soon for me - and I am absolutely gutted to miss such a massive fixture.

But I look at the bigger picture: helping the club move up the league table. I would have taken risks in my rehabilitation to have any chance of making the squad for Anfield. It was a decision I opted against, as I need to be back at 100 per cent for the rest of the season, rather then rush it, end up breaking down and leave myself with another setback.

Having sold our allocation of tickets for this epic match, I am sure that every Athletic supporter will sing their hearts out to get behind the lads and enjoy a day to remember in embracing the magic of the FA Cup.

With all the pressure that football brings, this Sunday is an occasion where it can be lifted off the lads’ shoulders.

The club can enjoy a great day and hopefully cause an upset. The opportunity to test yourself against some of the best talent in the country is a dream come true for players in the lower leagues.

Sharing the pitch with people you grow up watching and admiring doesn’t come around that often.

Hopefully, it will bring the best out of the boys and we can produce another memorable cup-tie performance.