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Neil Etheridge returns home, starts recovery after COVID-19 battle

Sports

Neil Etheridge returns home, starts recovery after COVID-19 battle

By Jonas Terrado

Neil Etheridge

Birmingham City and Philippine Azkals goalkeeper Neil Etheridge has been discharged from the hospital after undergoing treatment for COVID-19.

Lee Bowyer, Birmingham City’s manager, confirmed that Etheridge is now resting at home following his hospitalization where he also posted a selfie while in a ventilator.

“Neil is back home with his family, which is great news,” Bowyer said after Birmingham City posted a 3-0 win over Cheltenham Town in a friendly match Saturday, July 17.

“Everybody is smiling and grateful that he is back home.”

But the Blues boss said there’s no need to rush Etheridge back even if the English Football League Championship is less than a month away from opening its 2021/22 season.

Birmingham City actually starts its season with a League Cup first round match against Colchester before the ushering in the Championship campaign three days later opposite Stoke City.

While Etheridge continues his road to full recovery, Birmingham City is looking at another keeper to serve as cover for the Azkals veteran.

“We can’t rush, and have to see how he progresses, but the most important thing is he is back with his family,” said Bowyer.

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Birmingham City Neil Etheridge covid-19

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