CHIPPENHAM Town striker Mark Cutler is risking life in a wheelchair to make his footballing comeback following a depressing time on the sidelines.

The 27-year-old front man retired after the FA Carlsberg Vase final in May, but has not set his sights on reaching the final again this season.

Im living for the moment, although I know I could finish up in a wheelchair within a month, said Cutler.

Cutler, who retired on doctors advice, added: I couldnt sit out any longer. I am risking my long term condition, but hopefully my comeback can last long enough to play in the FA Vase final again.

Cutlers knee problems started at the age of 17, while he was a youth player at Bristol City.

The knee has deteriorated from too much football, and there is no cure. Its just an ongoing thing, and I could end up in a wheelchair in a month, he said.

But I was just too depressed not playing, and I couldnt even watch the side.

Cutler has spent his miserable days doing shopping and housework, and admitted his depression had a huge affect on his personal life.

The missus was going to leave me, but Im coming back now, and she said shell push my wheelchair around, Cutler joked.

Cutler is easing his way back, otherwise his comeback could be over before it has even got properly under way. He is wearing strapping under the sock to help support the troublesome ligaments.

I am being very sensible. Im trying to build up the knee so that it holds out. Im feeling very fit, despite a long time out.

He is also pleased with the response he has received from everyone concerned with the club.

The fans have been brilliant. The support I have received has been fantastic.

He also praised the way in which his manager Tommy Saunders and chairman Malcolm Lyus have handled the situation.

Tommy Saunders told me to be sure of what I was doing, and not to feel forced into coming back, he said.

There are injuries and suspensions at the club at the moment, but Ive come back because I missed playing football. The chairman also said I had to be wary of my long term condition, but Im living for the moment. My dad said it could end in a month, but hopefully it can last a long time. I just couldnt sit out any longer.

Saunders has welcomed Cutlers return, but insists he still has a long way to go.

You can tell he hasnt been training for ages. Hes doing okay at the moment, but he needs to get fitter, said Saunders,

Im fairly hopeful that his knee will hold out, but if it doesnt I have got other strikers. Im pleased that he (Cutler) is back, but he will be judged on his performances.