I jetted to Colombia and spent 16k to save career

Clyde keeper Ryan opens up on incredible journey

- ALAN ROBERTSON

RYAN MULLEN couldn't be accused of not going the distance for his career - after going all the way to Colombia to spend £16,000 salvaging it.

The keeper's penalty save at Peterhead seven days ago helped Clyde tee up their shot to avoid automatic relegation today.

But the story behind that split second is one of perserverance, pain and a helluva price tag after the thigh problem that has plagued his career resurfaced.

Mullen, 21, said: "Last summer I took time to get myself right and again my thigh was breaking down on me when I was going on trials, it just wasn't right.

"Clyde looked after me and, of course, they were aware it was a risk as well. The injury happened in October and I took a bit of time just to collect my thoughts.

"I went out to Colombia at Christmas and got a stem cell treatment. I was out there 10 days.

"It was 20,000 US dollars. That's the majority of my savings away. I had to take someone with me, my big brother Sean took time off work and gave me all the support I needed.