FOOTBALL: Akehurst hopes for quick return

Akehurst, 20, who has played 134 matches for Worthing, said: "I'll be in a cast for eight to 12 weeks. If everything's good, it will come off in eight and I'll start on physio work.

"I've got a plate in my fibula. If the bone heals strongly, they'll take it out. If not, they'll leave it in and my ankle will be stronger than before."

Akehurst broke his ankle in a work-related incident and, at one stage, was fearing the worst. He said: "There's always that doubt when you're lying there, that you might not play again. But when the doctor said I'll be able to play again, I was over the moon.

"I was gutted as soon as I did it, as football is my life. But I'm quite lucky that I've done it at my age. It could have been the end if I'd done it later in my career.

"I'll definitely play again and my aim is to get back for the last couple of games of the season. If not, I'll definitely be back for pre-season."

Akehurst was at Saturday's game at Croydon and received an excellent ovation from Rebels' fans.

He added: "I really wish I could have been out there helping the team today. It's not even been a week and I'm missing playing. I don't know how I'll feel in eight weeks' time. It's frustrating but now I know how our injured guys (looking at Tom Moffatt] feel.

"I'll still be watching every game, home and away, and I thank everyone for their support '“ Simon, the players, everyone at the club and the fans. They've all been great."

Rebels supporters will be holding a collection for Akehurst at Saturday's game with Leatherhead.

Striker Moffatt, who picked up a serious Achilles injury at the same age as Akehurst and has hardly played in the last two years, said he will fully support Akehurst in his return to fitness. He is hoping to be back in action in January after a hamstring injury.

Rebels boss Simon Colbran said: "Karl needs to look at Tom and follow in his footsteps. Tom's character and enthusiasm has shone through. He's always at training and our matches and wants to get back so much. I can't wait to have him back."

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