In a remarkable turn of events, Liverpool fan Sean Cox looks set to attend the charity match in his honour on 12th April, after being cleared to do so by medical staff at the National Rehabilitation Hospital in Dun Laoghaire.
Mr Cox was attacked outside Anfield this month last year, before the first leg of Liverpool's Champions League match against Roma. The Dunboyne native suffered a serious brain injury from the attack, and has been recovering in hospital for the last year.
The match at the Aviva Stadium is taking place between Liverpool and Republic of Ireland legends in order to raise funds for Mr Cox's care - tickets are available here.
Stephen Felle - friend of, and campaigner for - joined Newstalk Breakfast to discuss the fact that Sean will be there to see the match.
The latest squads for next week's #LFC Legends game with @FAIreland XI. 🙌
You can get your tickets to help support the Seán Cox Rehabilitation Trust ❤️💚— Liverpool FC (@LFC) April 4, 2019
“We are delighted to say that Sean is going to be there in person.
“It’s going to be Sean Cox’s first move outside a medical environment in almost twelve months, so it is very special for the family, and it’s very emotional for [Sean's wife] Martina.
Stephen relayed that Sean knows that he knows that he is attending the game, and smiles at the mention of the event.
“It has taken a lot of planning. He is obviously medically dependent, and in terms of the logistics of getting him to there and making sure he’s properly cared for when in the stadium have taken some work," Stephen added.
“The caveat is if Sean got an infection or a cold or something happens between now and Friday, we might have to change the plan. But as we sit here now… that’s the plan.”
Stephen gave an update on Sean's mental situation, and his cognisance of his surroundings.
"In terms of being able to watch matches or being able to tune in on a daily basis to what the league rankings are… it would be a stretch to think Sean can do that.
“But he hasn’t forgotten about Liverpool, they’re obviously in the race along with Man City for the Premiership this year, and nobody would be happier than Sean Cox if they do it.
“I think it would be a fantastic dedication to Sean if Liverpool can do it this year”.
Stephen also outlined how the family have been inundated with support and donations from around the world - not least AS Roma, who have been behind the campaign ever since its inception.
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