WRIGHTSON IS IN DREAMLAND

THREE years ago Kieran Wrightson ended the Road to Wembley with an FA Vase triumph with North Shields.

This week he ended another road, one of more significance than any silverware can offer.

Wrightson made his first competitive appearance for Newcastle Benfield after recovering from testicular cancer.

The former Newcastle United academy underwent surgery to have the tumour removed and had several rounds of chemotherapy.

He was given the allclear during the summer and made two pre-season appearances for Benfield.

But on Thursday night, he made his first competitive appearance, playing for 70 minutes in a 2-0 win over Alnwick Town in the Northumberland Senior Cup.

Wrightson was replaced with 20 minutes remaining and admitted that it was a “special feeling” to be back out on the pitch.

He said “I got nervous, I never get nervous, but it was excitement too.

“I knew I would be rusty and I felt like someone had put lead in my boots just before I was substituted. I’ve played Sunday League and in pre-season, but to be back at a good standard, it was a special feeling”

Wrightson paid tribute to his family and friends for their support during his recovery, revealing that they kept him going during his darkest days.

“There were days of doubt, but my family and friends put an arm around me, cuddled me, or gave me a kick, whatever it took to get me back on track.

“They were massive for me and now I am looking onwards and upwards”

Wrightson is now targeting a regular place in the Benfield line-up as they look to challenge for a top six place in the Northern League.

The Sam Smith’s Park outfit sit in mid-table in the Northern League’s top tier but hold games in hand over a number of clubs above them.

And Wrightson is hopeful that he can play a key role for the rest of the year.

“It’s great to be back, it has been hard work.

“Now I just want to continue playing, to get in the side, stay there and help the club progress”