Petr Čech hails 'inspirational' Ryan Mason | OneFootball

Arsenal goalkeeper Petr Čech has called Ryan Mason an “inspiration” after the Hull City midfielder officially retired on Tuesday following doctors’ advice.

The 26-year-old clashed heads with Chelsea defender Gary Cahill 13 months ago, and has been in rehabilitation since.

But on Tuesday afternoon, the former England international reluctantly confirmed that he would have to retire from the game after consulting neurologists.

And Čech, who suffered his own major head injury back in 2006, tweeted his condolences to Mason, claiming he should be ‘admired’ for his decision.

“Yesterday was a sad day for one incredible young man, Ryan Mason,” wrote the Czech Republic international.

“Although his story didn’t finish with ultimate happy ending, his determination, attitude and bravery he’s shown during his recovery is something to be admired and an inspiration for others!

“All the best Ryan.”

Mason previously revealed that the goalkeeper had been in contact in the initial months after the injury to offer his help and advice.

“I was fortunate to speak to people like Petr Čech, who has been through a similar situation to this and he has helped me massively,” he told Hull’s official website.

“He has given me advice and told me what to expect, to not to worry about certain things mentally and psychologically, and that was great for me.

“You look at what he has come back to achieve in the game (and it) is remarkable. I am very fortunate because a lot of people study these kinds of things but you never really understand unless you’re in the situation.

“I was very fortunate that he reached out to me and to my family and fiancee, and he took the time to come and see us and talk with us and help us through the situation.”