Jonas Gutierrez Makes First Appearance for Newcastle Since Cancer Diagnosis

Jonas Gutierrez returned to playing action for Newcastle United on Wednesday at St James' Park for the first time in 18 months having won his battle against testicular cancer.

The home side relayed the news as Gutierrez replaced Ryan Taylor with the score 0-0 against Manchester United:

"

64' - Substitution for Newcastle United. Welcome back, @elgalgojonas! Huge roar as he replaces Ryan Taylor. #NUFC

— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) March 4, 2015"

The club also provided the information that Fabricio Coloccini handed his fellow Argentine the captain's armband as he came on to the field:

Toon manager John Carver had suggested Gutierrez could return against the Red Devils, and he made good on his promise, to rapturous applause.

The 31-year-old winger underwent surgery to treat his cancer in September of last year, and he returned to training with the Magpies in November after chemotherapy treatment.

Not two minutes into his return, Gutierrez was booked by the referee, per Newcastle:

There will no doubt be huge eagerness from the entire footballing community to see Gutierrez continue to make regular appearances after Wednesday's return.