Doncaster Rovers captain Richard Wood has spoken candidly about the injury nightmare that nearly cost him much more than just his football career.
The veteran defender, who will turn 40 in July, was sidelined for over half the season after sustaining an ankle injury just two matches into the League Two campaign. While initially deemed a knock, the issue spiralled into something far more serious and ultimately required three operations.
Six months in the shadows
Wood’s absence extended over six months, with complications delaying his return and putting his long-term mobility at risk. His ankle became infected deep in the joint, prompting fears he may need to undergo ankle fusion surgery—a procedure that could have significantly affected his ability to walk.
“I’m a lot happier because it feels as if I’ve been in the wilderness for six months which wasn’t nice. I’m 40 in July but it’s still hard when you’re injured. I have struggled with it and had complications.
“But I’m fit now and have trained every day for the last four weeks or so, so I’m happy. My ankle got infected, deep in the joint. If we’d have not caught it or sorted it when we did I’d have had to have my ankle fused together which would have meant I wouldn’t have been able to walk properly again.
“So it could have gone very bad.”
Wood returned to action as a substitute at Accrington before earning a starting berth in Rovers’ match against Crewe ahead of the international break. Now back in full training and feeling refreshed, the experienced centre-back says he’s focused on making up for lost time during the final months of the campaign.
With his current contract set to expire in the summer, the former Rotherham man remains relaxed about his future. Though open to continuing, he admits it depends on how his body responds to the demands of the game over the coming weeks.
He’s also determined to contribute to Doncaster’s push for promotion, having missed much of the previous season with injury too. Saturday’s home clash against Carlisle marks their first fixture following the break, and Wood hopes to play a key role in the run-in.
Writer’s view
Wood’s honesty paints a stark picture of how quickly a routine football injury can turn into something life-altering. His resilience at nearly 40 is remarkable and his commitment to return—not just to play but to help drive Rovers forward—is a timely boost for Grant McCann’s side. If he stays fit, his experience could be vital in the final push for promotion.
