AFC Bournemouth
AFC Bournemouth head coach Scott Parker insisted he would “tread carefully” with David Brooks as the playmaker continues his return from illness.
Brooks rejoined his Cherries team-mates for the start of pre-season after revealing in May he had successfully completed his treatment for cancer.
The Wales international has not played since being diagnosed with stage 2 Hodgkin lymphoma in October 2021 and received the all-clear two months ago.
Since taking his first steps on the road to recovery, Brooks has been working to a modified training schedule as he bids to regain his match fitness.
The 24-year-old winger will join the Cherries squad during their pre-season training camp in Portugal but Parker said there would be no time frame on a playing return.
Parker told afcb.co.uk: “It’s amazing to have him back with us on a daily basis, something we haven’t had for some time.
“It’s incredible he’s come through what he’s come through and he’s on the pathway of becoming fit again.
“But it’s a process and it’s not something we’re going to be speeding along. We need to take each step as it comes and hit every milestone as they come.
“David has still got a lot to do in that sense. He was very ill so we need to tread carefully with him.
“He’s willing more than ever and everyone’s pushing but we’re being very sensible in what we’re doing with him.
“While we all can’t wait to have him back playing, we’re going to have to be patient with that.
“We need to see how he comes through the work we’re doing with him. It’s modified at the moment and he’s not at the levels of the other players due to where he is currently.”
