Ann-Katrin Berger has made a triumphant return from the Chelsea side to face Manchester City in the Women’s Super League.
The 31-year-old goalkeeper was diagnosed with a recurrence of thyroid cancer in August, meaning a return to football would take a back seat in order to focus on her recovery.
Berger is a popular member of Emma Hayes’ side and shared news of her diagnosis in a club statement in August.
In that statement, she wrote, “I wanted to let fans directly know that unfortunately after four years of living cancer free, a recurrence has been detected in my thyroid.
“I have said before that as a sportsman you have to fight every day to be the best you can be and that is something I will continue to do and I hope that by sharing my journey I can help others who find themselves in a similar situation.
“I am working closely with my club doctor and specialist in London and my treatment will start this week.
“I remain confident that my treatment will be as effective as last time and I look forward to getting back on the pitch and seeing you all at Kingsmeadow and Stamford Bridge.”
Thankfully, just over a month after the declaration, Berger has been named in the starting XI for the WSL match with City at Kingsmeadow with the ability to do what she loves more than anything else.
Listen to the full Chelsea vs Manchester City commentary live on talkSPORT, kick-off at 4pm.