Blues striker Charlie Wyke has opened up about the most difficult year of his career, reflecting on the physical and mental challenges he has faced as he continues his long rehabilitation.
Charlie spoke candidly this week about the serious injury he suffered last season, which included a dislocation of his left ankle that also caused extensive ligament and cartilage damage. The injury, which occurred after he was introduced as a substitute against Cheltenham Town in October 2024, required major surgery and ruled him out for the rest of the 2024/25 campaign.
“It’s been horrendous,” Charlie said. “I’ve broken my leg, dislocated my ankle, torn every ligament, damaged cartilage, had pins put in and gone through multiple operations. Mentally and physically it’s been the toughest year of my life. But I’m finally starting to see a bit of progress.”
Despite the scale of the setback, his determination remains strong. Recent weeks have brought small breakthroughs that have lifted his spirits and reminded him that the work is paying off.
“I’m back on the grass again, doing running, passing and shooting. Just being outside feels unbelievable. A few weeks ago, if someone had told me I’d only ever play one more game, I’d have taken it. I was really low. But I’m feeling more positive now. I’m not ready to give in.”
He also spoke about the perception that injured players have an easier workload than the squad.
“People think you’re just coming in and doing nothing, but it’s the opposite. Injured players work twice as hard as the lads on the pitch. It’s constant rehab, treatments, gym sessions and dealing with setbacks. It’s relentless, but I’ll do whatever it takes.”
A warning from specialists
Charlie revealed that the seriousness of the injury was underlined when medical specialists told him they would consider retiring if they were in his position.
“It took me by surprise when the surgeon said that. It shows how bad the injury was. But that’s not me. I’ve never been the type to give in. After everything I’ve been through, I’m not stopping. I want to get back playing football.”
His resilience has already been tested earlier in his career. In 2021, while playing for Wigan Athletic, he suffered a cardiac arrest in training and was saved by the swift actions of manager Leam Richardson and club doctor Jonathan Tobin. His heart had stopped for four minutes before he was revived. He later had an implantable defibrillator fitted and returned to professional football in an emotional comeback that inspired supporters across the country.
That experience has shaped the mentality he carries today.
“I’ve fought back before and I’ll do it again.”
Proud of the group
Charlie has admired the progress the team has made in recent weeks despite the challenges of the season.
“Everyone knows how much Carlisle means to me. I came here as a young lad and I always follow how the club is doing. This season we’ve brought in some great players and the togetherness in the dressing room is massive. Watching lads like Regan has been brilliant. He’s exciting, he scores goals and he goes past players. I love watching him.
“It brings me joy to see the lads doing well. I just want the club to succeed.”
