Barnsley's £1.2m man Iain Hume has made his first few tentative steps back onto a football pitch after taking the kick-off in John Achterberg's testimonial at Tranmere Rovers' Prenton Park last night.
Hume was one of 30 players who returned to the Birkenhead club to celebrate the career of goalkeeper Achterberg who has made over 300 appearances for Tranmere since signing in 1998.
Hume, who has been out since November with a fractured skull suffered at the hands of Chris Morgan's elbow, appeared on the pitch to take the kick-off before departing to a standing ovation from the supporters.
Hume told
www.barnsleyfc.co.uk:"I was back out on the pitch to take the kick off at John's testimonial at Tranmere. It was a big night for my mate John and I was very pleased to be a part of it, even if it was only for a few seconds.
"I was a little disappointed that it was at Tranmere and not in front of Barnsley supporters because I owe this club so much. I owe a lot of people at Barnsley so much and I am confident that they will see a different player with a point to prove next season".
Despite getting his first "taste" of football in four months, Hume is not going to be back playing until next season. Still, good to have back Humey!
Incidentally the match was against an Everton XI with the Everton side triumphing 3-0.