NATHAN ASPINALL considered quitting the Premier League as he struggled with the mental and physical pain of dartitis.
The Asp, 33, intended to get “absolutely steaming”; drunk with his wife Kirsty after in front of home fans in Manchester.
Yet days before beating 6-4 in the final, he had a cortisone injection to reduce swelling and soreness.
And in February, he contemplated quitting due to his crippling affliction.
Stockport star Aspinall said: “Five weeks ago I was really struggling.
“I said to Kirsty, ‘I can’t be doing this anymore’.
“I’m riddled with injuries again. I had a cortisone injection on Tuesday in my elbow.
“You think, ‘Is it worth it?’
“But then nights like this, that’s why I keep playing.
“There are so many people out there that want to give up. You have got to keep fighting.
“Between week six and week eight, in the five years I’ve played the Premier League, I have had a wobble.
“My head goes. I miss my family and being at home.
“These last few weeks prove why I’m still playing and one of the best players in the world.
“I have been through a horrendous two years. But I’m a fighter, a warrior.
“You either quit and give up and go home or you own it and make it part of your game.
“That is what I have decided to do.
“I’m going to go out tonight and getting absolutely steaming with the missus.
“And, hopefully, we end the night on a high.”;
