If there was an award for classiest person in football, I’m pretty sure Petr Cech would win it.
On Tuesday, it was announced that Ryan Mason would be retiring from football at the age of just 26 after fracturing his skull against Chelsea.
According to a statement released by Hull, the damage caused by the midfielder’s collision with Gary Cahill on 22 January, 2017, means numerous world renowned neurologists and neuro surgeons have all advised that he retire.
In October, Mason revealed that Cech, who battled his way back from a similar injury in 2006, had been a massive help to him during a difficult year.
And now the 35-year-old has offered some genuinely wonderful words of support to the young Hull midfielder.
Yesterday was a sad day for one incredible young man .@RyanMason . Although his story didn’t finish with ultimate happy ending , his determination , attitude and bravery he’s shown during his recovery is something to be admired and an inspiration for others ! All the best Ryan pic.twitter.com/cXASAimV5r
— Petr Cech (@PetrCech) February 14, 2018
There’s no a doubt in my mind that Cech sat down and personally tweeted those words to a man he obviously deeply admires.
The goalkeeper is without a doubt one of the classiest people in football and his message to Mason wouldn’t have had anything to do with PR. It would have been from the heart.
Cech got to play football again, albeit with headgear. Mason doesn’t. And I can’t imagine what the 26-year-old must be going through.
Daily Cannon wish him all the best.
As a Tottenham Man I have to say Petr how incredible you have been to Ryan and you are a gentleman and your family should be very proud of you.
— Graham Roberts (@GrahamRoberts4) February 14, 2018
Classy as always, Big Pete.
— Childish Landino (@igniazpi) February 14, 2018
Absolute class act and thats why us Gooners love you big Pete! Also, Ryan, gutted to hear that your career has ended on such sad terms however there’s a bright future for you in the football industry in another capacity jus waiting for you, this is NOT the end!
— Theo (@masont_17) February 14, 2018
Kudos to you Petr. As a Spurs fan, I should dislike you having played for Chelsea and Arsenal, but I can’t. You’re one of the good guys in football who is a great role model for kids and adults👏👏👏
— George Georgiou THFC (@hazzastalavista) February 14, 2018
Brilliantly put big man what a true gentleman you are. Now go and get that 200th clean sheet against City, would be fitting for such a great pro.
— old bloke1956 (@CALVADOS100) February 14, 2018
Absolute class from Petr Cech! Another gentleman of the modern game!! No matter who he plays I have huge respect for him 👊
— DavidOddy (@davidoddy) February 14, 2018
Love this, always so respectful and classy. Glad you are one of the best we’ve had at Chelsea👍🏻
— Jay (@JayNorthYT) February 14, 2018
Salute to you, Mr. Cech for an honest Tweet. My respect towards you just keeps increasing. You are a true inspiration and a great leader.
— The Unknown (@nareshchandrac) February 14, 2018
Nice sentiments Petr. Good to see that sort of professional collegiality.
— Brian Ralston (@SelfTort) February 14, 2018