Alex Johnson. AAP / PA Images
AAP / PA Images / PA Images
Sydney Swans defender Alex Johnson is set to make his long-awaited Australian Football League (AFL) return after almost six years — or 2,136 days out of action.
The 26-year-old is named to line out as as Sydney face Collingwood at the SGC on Saturday night.
Johnson starred in the 2012 Grand Final, as his side ran out 10-point winners over Hawthorn, but he hasn’t played an AFL game since due to injury nightmare after injury nightmare.
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He has overcome five knee reconstructions, a total of 12 knee operations, a reoccurring knee infection and one groin surgery.
Alex Johnson will play his first senior game in 2136 days when we takes on Collingwood at the SCG on Saturday night.
“I’m really excited, just a whole bunch of emotions,” he said.
“I’ve been through a lot over the journey but I always had my sights on getting back to the AFL. That’s why I’ve stuck at it.”
Johnson returned through the North East Australian Football League (NEAFL) last July, and faced the Canberra Demons in his first match in 1,736 days.
Since then he’s worked his way up the ranks once again and gets a chance to complete the ultimate comeback after seven impressive outings in the NEAFL this season.
In action in 2012. AAP / PA Images
AAP / PA Images / PA Images
An incredible story.
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After 2,136 days and 12 knee operations, Sydney Swans defender set for AFL return
THE LONGEST OF long roads back.
Sydney Swans defender Alex Johnson is set to make his long-awaited Australian Football League (AFL) return after almost six years — or 2,136 days out of action.
The 26-year-old is named to line out as as Sydney face Collingwood at the SGC on Saturday night.
Johnson starred in the 2012 Grand Final, as his side ran out 10-point winners over Hawthorn, but he hasn’t played an AFL game since due to injury nightmare after injury nightmare.
He has overcome five knee reconstructions, a total of 12 knee operations, a reoccurring knee infection and one groin surgery.
“I’m really excited, just a whole bunch of emotions,” he said.
“I’ve been through a lot over the journey but I always had my sights on getting back to the AFL. That’s why I’ve stuck at it.”
Johnson returned through the North East Australian Football League (NEAFL) last July, and faced the Canberra Demons in his first match in 1,736 days.
Since then he’s worked his way up the ranks once again and gets a chance to complete the ultimate comeback after seven impressive outings in the NEAFL this season.
An incredible story.
The42 is on Instagram! Tap the button below on your phone to follow us!
To embed this post, copy the code below on your site
alex johnson Comeback Inspiring never give up Sydney Swans