Chelsea forward Fran Kirby is set for an emotional return to the WSL after being told she may never play football again.
The 27 year old has been out of league action since last November when she learned she had a rare heart condition.
She said: “There was a period where I was told by the cardiologist that if I didn’t slow down, I could become chronic and never play again.
“I remember reading about the illness because I had no idea what it was when I was diagnosed.
“I never read any stories where someone had overcome it. “But I wanted to show to myself that I could get over this and I had a positive story to give.
“It has been a tough journey but it’s definitely shaped me into who I am now. It made me realise how precious these moments when you play are.”
Kirby was diagnosed with the illness the day after the win over Manchester United last November. She’s set to make her WSL return against the same opponent on Sunday.