Rugby's greatest comebacks

Ugo Monye was a surprise call-up to the 2009 Lions squad but his inclusion for the South Africa tour might never have come about had he not seen off a career-threatening injury.

The England wing suffered serious back troubles. Monye's situation was so dire that he spent much of January lying flat on his back after suffering agonising muscle spasms.

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Despite his undoubted bravery and commitment, Monye is not alone in fighting back from the brink of a career-ending injury.

Some of the biggest names in the game have battled through the pain barrier to resume their careers after staring premature retirement in the face.