Alastair Clarkson praises Jarryd Roughead for the way he’s handled himself during cancer fight

ALASTAIR Clarkson has hailed Jarryd Roughead’s courage and dignity, with the star forward taking another step towards a remarkable comeback.

Jarryd Roughead at Hawthorn training. Picture: Michael Klein

ALASTAIR Clarkson has hailed Jarryd Roughead’s courage and dignity, with the star forward taking another step towards a remarkable comeback.

Roughead on Saturday completed a solid two-hour session at Waverley Park having slotted seamlessly back into the main group after being cleared of cancer.

‘YOU’RE BACK MATE’: ROUGHY’S GOT EVERYONE GRINNING

The four-time premiership player then signed autographs for fans who were keen to pass on their congratulations and well-wishes.

“Bloody hell, wasn’t it fantastic news that we got this week? Big Roughie,” Clarkson told guests at last Thursday night’s AGM.

“I’m rapt with you. The dignified way you’ve handled yourself over the last nine months, you and Sarah have had to do it really tough, you’ve had some great support from your teammates and family and the football club.

“Rough, this is about your health mate. We’ve known that for a long time, but this is an eye opener for us all, really.

“Your health is always the most important, your family is next and then footy somewhere underneath that.

“Footy is a big part of your life I know, but you might play for two years, you might play for three, you might not even get there next year. Who knows?

“But what I do know is that there’s a hell of a lot more life ahead of you than there is just playing footy

“I’m so pleased you’re back in full health again and back in full swing.”