Programme notes

Chelsea defender Gary Cahill has penned an emotional message to former Hull star Ryan Mason in the programme for their game on Friday night.

The two sides went face to face in the FA Cup and at the time of writing, Chelsea were 3-0 up.

Though, that was to be expected and what caught the eye on many observers was Cahill’s notes in the club programme.

Ryan Mason was forced to retire from football this week when he was advised to on medical grounds.

Now, the footballing world has been speaking out about the travesty and a very bright career cut short.

You can see Gary Cahill’s programme message below.

“We come into a fifth-round FA Cup tie against Hull on the back of a good result against West Brom on Monday, but there is something more important on my mind as I write this.

“I was devastated to hear that Ryan Mason has retired from professional football this week.

“I can’t even imagine what he’s feeling and going through, having to retire at such a young age, when I heard the news it was heartbreaking.

“Ryan is a lovely guy. I’ve met him and trained alongside him with England, and it’s a horrible situation.

“Challenging for the ball in the air is such a common thing and you never expect consequences like this to come from it.

“That is when football goes totally out of your thoughts and it becomes about making the best decision for your health.

“I want to spend my best wishes to Ryan and his family.

“The most important thing in life is your health, and I am sure he will now go on to be successful in whatever he chooses to do next.”