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STEP IN RIGHT DIRECTION

Chapecoense plane crash victim Alan Ruschel walks for the first time as he makes incredible recovery from disaster

Right-back was dragged from the wreckage of the doomed jet after it struck a mountain in Colombia on Monday

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ALAN RUSCHEL, one of just six survivors in the devastating Chapecoense plane crash, is walking again.

SporTV reporter  revealed the right-back had left the ICU yesterday before sharing a clip of him managing a few paces in hospital.

 Alan Ruschel gives fans a thumbs up before after walking into hospital room
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Alan Ruschel gives fans a thumbs up before after walking into hospital roomCredit: San Vincente Foundation Hospital, Rionegro

Ruschel said: "Hello everyone in Brazil and the whole world. You’ve been watching my recuperation.

"This is Alan Ruschel speaking. I would like to tell you that I am recovering really well and that soon, I will be back in Brazil to continue my recovery there too.

“Thank you for the strength you have given me through your prayers, for the warmth and kindness I have received. I just wanted to thank everyone. Thank you!” 

Ruschel - on loan from Internacional, was previously involved in a serious car crash, moved seats on the jet before it crashed in Colombia and survived after being rescued from the wreckage.

He warned by his doctor to make the most of life following his miraculous recovery.

Doctor Sonagli reportedly told the media: If he [Alan Ruschel] has seven lives, he should not waste the other four.

The chartered aircraft  from Bolivian airline Lamia was flying from Brazil via Bolivia, but crashed on its approach to the city of Medellin in Colombia.

The Chapecoense team had been travelling to Colombia to play in the final of the Copa Sudemericano against Atletico Nacional.

 Ruschel sat down in a chair before delivering a heartwarming message to fans
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Ruschel sat down in a chair before delivering a heartwarming message to fans
 Ruschel was the first survivor to be pulled from the wreckage and suffered multiple fractures and a spinal injury
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Ruschel was the first survivor to be pulled from the wreckage and suffered multiple fractures and a spinal injury
 The Brazilian was wheeled into a hospital in La Ceja but is now being treated in Somer Clinic in Rionegra, Colombia
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The Brazilian was wheeled into a hospital in La Ceja but is now being treated in Somer Clinic in Rionegra, ColombiaCredit: AP:Associated Press
 Alan's fiance Moa spoke of her relief at her husband's miraculous escape
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Alan's fiance Moa spoke of her relief at her husband's miraculous escapeCredit: Splash News

The 27-year old is recovering from a life-saving spine operation after being moved to the Somer Clinic in Rionegra Colombia.

Ruschel's fiance Moa, who was waiting for 'the love of her life' to call her to discuss their wedding plans once he had landed, has remained by the player's bedside along with his family.

Alan’s brother, Alissen, took to Instagram to post an update from his father and thank supporters for their prayers.

He confirmed Ruschel is no longer being fed through a drip and he has finally heard his voice after 'several days of distress'.

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