Story By: Juan Mayes, Sub Editor: Joseph Golder, Agency: Golder’s News And Sport

Lazio defender Francesco Acerbi has said “cancer was my luck” adding if it had not been for his illness he “would probably be playing in Serie B or would have already ended his career.”

Italian international Acerbi, 32, made the comments in an interview with Italian magazine ‘L’Ultimo Uomo’ where he spoke about being diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2013 and how that changed his life for the better.

Acerbi said: “Before, I did not respect myself, my work or the people that paid my wage. I had a habit of showing up to practice ‘tipsy’ after a night out.

“I was in my physical peak and only needed to sleep a few hours before jumping onto the pitch. I just wanted to have fun, I did not want to know about the rest.”

Acerbi was diagnosed with cancer in June of 2013 after he was bought by Sassuolo in a pre-season medical check-up where a testicular tumour was found.

The central defender had the tumour removed and returned to training with the club shortly after, even playing in several Serie A matches before announcing the cancer had returned in December of 2013.

After receiving chemotherapy treatment between 7th January to 14th March he was able to return to the pitch the following season fully-recovered and became a starting defender at the club.

Acerbi said: “A year after my illness, I went to bed and woke up having a panic attack. I was afraid of my own shadow.

“I started to think about the opportunities I had squandered in evenings of excess. I had to go to a specialist to overcome my fears.

“Cancer was my luck. I decided I wanted to compensate for everything I lost. If it hadn’t been for that, I would probably be playing in Serie B or would have already ended my career.

“Luckily someone upstairs loved me and sent me the illness. Without it, things would have ended badly. I am happy with the person I have become despite all my deficiencies.”

Acerbi was bought by Lazio in July of 2018 on a five-year contract deal for a reported 10.5 million EUR (8.9 million GBP) and has cemented himself as a key player for the club.

Lazio are second in Serie A, a single point behind leaders Juventus. They are set to face Bologna on Saturday 29th February.

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