Arsenal goalkeeper Petr Cech has revealed admiration for Ryan Mason's fight to return from a serious head injury.
Former Hull City man Mason suffered a fractured skull in a challenge with Gary Cahill in January 2017, before spending 13 months focusing on his recovery.
The midfielder was eventually forced to retire earlier this month, however, after advice from doctors about potential complications from returning to the pitch.
Gunners goalkeeper Cech told talkSPORT that he is proud of Mason for his effort, despite the former player having to call time on his career.
"I have to admire the way he fought with the injury and the way he came back, and how hard he trained to be able to play again," the stopper said.
"In the end he did everything he could, and it was not enough; sometimes, that's life. But it just goes to show if you really want and work hard towards your dream you just might have a chance to achieve it."
Gunners goalkeeper Cech also suffered a serious head injury while playing for Chelsea in 2006.
Jonny Whitfield
