FOOTBALL: Dolan's tug of emotion

If it seems footballers are loyal only to their wallets, rest assured that old values still exist. Examine the story of Exeter's Eamonn Dolan.

Two years ago last April, when he was 25 and still full of ambition, Dolan's world fell apart. A suspicious lump was diagnosed as cancer. Admitted to hospital immediately, he had a testicle removed and began intensive chemotherapy.

Today, he has recovered and is ready to resume his career. But Exeter cannot pick him before they repay pounds 3,000 in insurance received when he became ill. Exeter, with estimated debts of pounds 2m, are now run by administrators and can afford only the bare essentials.

Dolan, capped five times at Under-21 level for the Republic of Ireland, is unpaid but is happy to stay. "I've had offers of trials at other clubs but Exeter and their fans have been very supportive. I would like my comeback to be here."