André Gomes thanks Everton: "It's an honour to be part of this club"
Everton midfielder André Gomes has voiced his appreciation to the club for their support in helping him to make a full and swift recovery from a serious injury.
André Gomes has said he feels honoured to play for Everton - the the club which helped him through one of the lowest points of his career as he battled back from an horrific injury. The Portugal international returned to action in February's 3-2 defeat to Arsenal, just 112 days after fracturing his ankle following a challenge from Tottenham's Son Heung-min.
I've been lucky with the help I've received at Everton - Gomes
Gomes has previously thanked the quick-thinking of Everton's club doctor for ensuring a rapid recovery, and the 26-year-old is grateful to represent the Merseysiders. Speaking after Everton were granted planning permission to build a mental health facility, Gomes spoke to Sky Sports.
"I think it is really important, especially now with the pandemic. People have more issues, probably. I think it's really good," the midfielder said. "It is an honour to be part of the club. Such a special club with all these types of opportunities. For me, during my rehab it was important to have the physios, the club and people around me to give me a hand if I needed something. I was a lucky person that I had that, but some people don't have that. Sometimes people have their own issues and don't have people on the side to help. The club is doing a really good job to try to help everybody that needs it."
Back out on the pitch at Goodison
Gomes' comeback was cut short by the coronavirus pandemic, with the former Barcelona player making only three appearances before the Premier League was brought to a halt. And he acknowledges it felt strange running out for March's 1-1 draw with Manchester United at Goodison Park, the scene of his sickening injury.
"It was weird to go back," he said. "[I had] a huge welcome back from the fans. The last time I played at home was when I got injured. It was in the memory. It was a mix of feeling 'I am back' but the last game I played at home was weird. I felt good and I was trying to improve my game and help the team. Unfortunately, we lost to Chelsea and then there was the break."