Guard of honour for footballer who lost leg after being hit by car

ITV News

4 days ago

Fans and team mates welcome Jordan Chiedozie onto the pitch for Bashley's benefit match against AFC Bournemouth.
A footballer who lost a leg after being hit by a car on the M27 has been given a guard of honour by team mates at his former club.
Jordan Chiedozie, who played for Southern League club Bashley FC, was left in a coma after he was struck by the vehicle as he tried to change a tyre in February.
Richard Slee reports on Jordan Chiedozie's recovery and preparation for the benefit match.
He'd been travelling home to Southampton after playing a match at Tavistock in Devon when the accident happened.
The 30-year-old lost his right leg and suffered open fractures on his left leg, along with a cracked pelvis.
Throughout his recovery his dream was to be able to walk out onto the pitch again, which, despite a metal brace, he was able to do at the benefit match on Friday.
He was given a standing ovation by fans and team mates as Bashley hosted AFC Bournemouth's development side.
The visitors won 6-1 but posting on X, Bashley FC said the result was unimportant.
"The football came second today, it was all about showing support and love to the inspirational Jordan Chiedozie" they said.
Having started his career at AFC Bournemouth, Chiedozie went on to play for clubs including Cambridge United, Margate, Poole Town and AFC Totton.
Extended interview: Jordan speaks to ITV Meridian's Rachel Hepworth about the crash, his recovery, and the support he's received.
The self-employed striker also worked in the building industry, but has been unable to focus on anything other than his recovery, which involves daily sessions of physiotherapy.
"I try not to think too much about the future," he told ITV Meridian before the match. "I just focus on what I can do now, today.
"My whole life changed in February, but I don't think my outlook on life has changed much.
"I still try to make the most of every situation.
" When I'm going into hospital for physio I see lots of people in far worse situations than me. It's humbling.
"I think my mindset as a footballer means I'm able to focus on the physio and physical recovery because I'm used to it.
" In many ways I still think I'm lucky because I'm still here."
Chiedozie is still keen to compete in sport and hopes to rekindle his passion for golf.
He recently received his prosthetic leg and is learning to adapt to his new life.
A 44-year-old woman, from Wraysbury in Berkshire, was arrested on suspicion of drink driving and causing serious injury by dangerous driving and was later bailed until 1 May, extended until 1 August.