How do you even begin to write this?
It puts it all into perspective.
Arriving home from work, putting things in place for tea. Checking my phone for the usual post work Twitter fix.
I turn Twitter on.
Wolves announce that goalkeeper Carl Ikeme has been diagnosed with acute Leukaemia.
Heart drops. Disbelief takes over.
At the age of 30, thinking of a man who is only a year older, it shows you how life can go in a different direction at any moment, at any age.
There have been so many well written tributes to Ikeme. I just wanted to put another one into the mix.
It’s just a transfer
Over the last few days we have been gushing over the potential arrival of Porto’s Ruben Neves.
The type of player we never thought we would see at Molineux.
It’s been a constant case of refreshing twittter, checking news stories and crossing your fingers that it might happen.
Now, for all the right reasons his arrival, which will be a significant moment in our club’s history, will ultimately just be a footnote.
The love of a football transfer is in our blood.
It can make us all feel like kids again, that moment to wake up on Christmas morning to unwrap your presents (if you’re lucky enough).
However, moments like this puts it all into perspective.
Something that brings some us so much joy, is just so silly.
Kemes
Since Fosun took over, I had a concern about identity.
Whether Wolves projected growth into the stratosphere would replace the community and connection it has has with its own fans, its heritage and the different nuances that make Wolverhampton great.
Carl Ikeme opititmises this strong connection.
Growing up through the academy and having made over 200 senior appearances, Carl went from a shadowy loanee to Wolves no.1 goalkeeper.
Carl took the long way round, and got his rewards.
Ikeme is a gentle giant. A down to earth, all round nice guy.
A couple of years ago we were lucky enough to interview Carl Ikeme with fellow keepers Aaron McCarey and Matt Murray for our 200th episode.
When we walked into the room, Carl had a big smile on his face and greeted us as if we knew him for our whole lives.
What impressed us most about Carl was his honesty. He spoke about the difficulties of going out on loan, the isolating experience and the challenges faced by being in between the sticks.
Later on, Luke Thompson critisied Kenny Jackett’s team selection for Wolves snow filled Molineux FA Cup 3rd round replay.
Rather than brush it off and stay quiet, Carl, very politely, defended his gaffer and the choices he made. Again, this honesty and unity was refreshing to see.
This character is what makes our no.1 goalkeeper so likeable.
It’s this man, who is ingrained into our club’s DNA for so many years, that has rested my fears of our club losing its own DNA.
He is part of our community, and the outpouring of support from fellows fans to get behind Carl only re-inforces this message.
It’s a new long and unexpected road that Carl Ikeme is about to embark on.
Just on his proven determination alone, we know it’s another journey that Ikeme will win.
We’re all here for you Kemes. You’re not alone.
#TeamKemes
Leave a Comment