Sean Cox, the Liverpool supporter who was brutally attacked ahead of the Reds' Champions League semi-final match against Roma last season, is set to leave hospital for the first time since the incident to attend a game held in his honour.
The 53-year-old was the victim of an unprovoked attack last April 24 which left him fighting for his life.
On Friday, April 12 a 'Legends for Sean Cox' tribute game will see players from the past managed by Ian Rush on the Liverpool side and Mick McCarthy on the Republic of Ireland side go head-to-head to raise money for the Sean Cox Rehabilitation Trust.
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Mr Cox's friend Stephen Felle tolds NewsTalk radio: He said: “We’re delighted to say that Seán is going to be there in person.
“It’s going to be Sean's first move outside a medical environment in almost 12 months, so it’s very special for the family and it’s very emotional for Martina (Sean's wife).
“She says he does (know he’s going)…and he’s excited…he keeps smiling, he can’t wait.”
He added that although Mr.Cox still has a long way to go in his recovery, he is fighting hard to progress.
“[When] we talk about progress, or we talk about Sean’s recovery… I think people need to understand the degrees of magnitude are very, very small," he said.
“It is heartening that Sean can say more words, or that he may be more alert, or that his movement might be improving.
“In terms of being able to watch matches or being able to tune in on a daily basis to what the league rankings are… it would be a stretch to think Sean can do that.
“But he hasn’t forgotten about Liverpool, they’re obviously in the race along with Man City for the Premiership this year, and nobody would be happier that Sean Cox if they do it.
“I think it would be a fantastic dedication to Seán if Liverpool can do it this year”.
