Adrian Purtell

Back in May, in what was perhaps the most traumatic moment of his life, Bradford Bulls centre Adrian Purtell suffered a heart attack post-game, falling on the coach in the process.

Fast forward to the current month of December, and Purtell has received the news of his life – with doctors giving the former NRL winger the all-clear to return to the footy field for Bradford.

Purtell, who has played for the Canberra Raiders and the Penrith Panthers in the past, underwent the heart tests necessary to determine if he could return – with Purtell overjoyed with the good news.

“I didn't know what to expect really and I was in shock when the specialist gave me the news,” Purtell said.

“It didn't really sink in until I was on the train coming home but I am obviously delighted.

“I felt myself that I'd be OK because I have been doing some training and felt good, but I am not a medical person so it was pretty awesome to get that news from such an eminent specialist.”

Signing with the Bulls just 12 months ago, Purtell admits that the ordeal was tough, but he was thankful of the continued support he received from his fellow players and the club itself.

“Last year was a tough one for the Bulls but the boys all bonded together and stuck by me and the club has been absolutely tremendous throughout,” he added.

“I am just looking forward now to getting back into full-time training and playing games with my mates. That's what I want to do most of all.”

Bradford coach Francis Cummins is excited to have one of their key players back and raring to go.

“It's great for us because we have got one of our star players back.

“But for Adrian it's an amazing piece of news because we weren't even sure whether he would be able to live a normal life, let alone play again.”

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By ricky