Everton midfielder Andre Gomes has paid tribute to everyone involved in the world of football after making his return to action just 112 days after suffering an horrific ankle break.
Gomes suffered the shocking injury during a clash with Tottenham Hotspur at Goodison Park back in November after a challenge from Spurs attacker Heung-Min Son.
It was thought that Gomes would face a much longer stint out of action but he made his return during the Toffees' 3-2 defeat to Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium this afternoon, appearing as a 59th minute substitute.
It was, of course, a splendid moment for everyone to see and an incredibly emotional one for Gomes, who offered his thanks to everyone that had wished him well during his recovery process.
"Actually, I need to say thank you to everybody," Gomes told Sky Sports after the game.
"The team were great, the Evertonians and also general football supporters. Everyone has been wonderful with me.
"Also, other professional players, ex-professional players as well, everyone has been wonderful with me, so I need to thank you."
Asked if the support of everyone was a big benefit in his recovery mentally, Gomes added: "It gives you confidence, obviously, and you feel like you have the support of the people and I just pushed myself to the limit.
"I wanted to be back as soon as possible and I am glad I have everyone around me."
And it was not just Gomes himself that was glad to be back out on the pitch, with Sky Sports pundit Graeme Souness also delighted to see the Portuguese midfielder back out on the grass strutting his stuff.
Souness told Sky Sports: "He was making cute and clever passes. He was moving the same way as I remember him.
"Obviously we're all different but he might take four games, five games to get up to speed, but you would not have accused him of not being up to speed today."
