Inspiring fan invited to meet Pep in unforgettable surprise | OneFootball

The Club invited a lifelong supporter to the City Football Academy (CFA) today for an extra special surprise.

John Shepherdson has faced a number of challenges after suffering a hypoxic brain injury in 2019 which sadly caused long-term damage. John’s condition means he is now impacted day-to-day by cognitive and physical difficulties and will require a wheelchair for the rest of his life.

Despite these obstacles, his passion for the Cityzens has never wavered, with everything from his clothes to his wheelchair adorned exclusively in City branding.

John first caught the Club’s attention after a video circulated online of him and his rehabilitation coach. In the video John was captured standing independently for the first time – an incredible milestone in his physiotherapy journey.

His determination was noticed by manager Pep Guardiola who was keen to invite John to the Club’s training ground to meet himself and the squad, in recognition of all his hard work.

WATCH: Pep meets John Shepherdson

When he arrived at the City Football Academy with his family, they were greeted with a warm welcome and it wasn’t long until the first surprise of the day, meeting the First Team players.

Each member of the squad arrived to meet John, with each player taking time to speak with him, his long-term partner Joanne, and their nine-year-old son Carter.

Pep then took the time to meet John personally, creating a moment that was both intimate and significant.

The First Team Manager told John how watching the video of his remarkable journey had moved him, inspiring the invitation that brought John to the training ground. John also shared his unwavering praise for Pep and the team, noting how their triumphs on the pitch had given him strength during his toughest days.

After meeting Pep and the team, John had a private tour of our facilities where he was able to get a taste of where the magic happens and to John’s surprise, he was able to watch the First Team in action as they trained, putting the perfect end to an unforgettable day.

Commenting on the surprise, Manager Pep Guardiola said:  “We were so happy to invite John and his family to the training ground this week.

"The Club found a video of his rehabilitation work on the internet and we were so inspired by his commitment and effort that we wanted to meet him.

“His story is so important and shows us all that with hard work and determination you can overcome the biggest challenges.

“We all hope John and his family enjoyed today as much as all of us enjoyed meeting him and learning more about the special difference he makes in people’s lives. We look forward to seeing him at the Etihad again soon.”

John has been invited as guest of the Club to the upcoming clash against Liverpool and was gifted a signed shirt by the team.

John Shepherdson said:  “This has been the best day of my life, it was a truly unforgettable experience that I will hold close to my heart, I still can’t believe this all happened today, it still doesn’t feel real.”