It's been another dreary season for Manchester United but that's not to say there's not inspirational stories happening at Carrington. Yesterday, young Max Taylor, who was battling cancer last year, was named in Manchester United's Europa League squad for tomorrow's match against Astana.
Taylor was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2018. This time last year, he was undergoing chemotherarpy. Tomorrow night. he could feature for United's senior team. He has spoken with the BBC and MUTV about his journey.
"All you're thinking is this is serious, this could end my life"
Manchester United defender Max Taylor opens up on his battle with testicular cancer.
The 19-year-old is in the Reds squad for tomorrow's Europa League tie against Astana #MUFC pic.twitter.com/MCIq3o7fjG— BBC Sport Manchester (@BBCRMsport) November 27, 2019
“I went to the doctor and had it checked. At first, it was just a cyst and then I had antibiotics and, after a week, it was fine. Then, a week later, it came back but it was bigger and had a bit of an infection. I got sent by the club doctor to a specialist and he gave me the same antibiotics and told me I probably just needed a longer course. But he sent me off for a scan just to make sure everything was alright. Then it was at the scan when they found a cancer-looking area right in the middle.”
Taylor's body responded well to chemo and after being given the all-clear last February and building his health back, Taylor broke through with Manchester United U-23s. This week, he may get his chance with the senior team.
As we reach the end of Movember, Taylor's story proves the value of being vigilant about the dangers of testicular cancer. Taylor seems like an incredible young man and we hope he gets a run out tomorrow night in Kazakhstan as part of a very young Manchester United team.
"I don’t want it to define me. I’d rather it be a part of me and then whether it’s my football or how I am as a person, all combines to define me. I don’t want it to be a case of it’s the cancer that defines me."
