How Pro Footballer Scott Neville Used My ACL Guide to Return to Sport at 36

When professional footballer Scott Neville suffered his second ACL rupture, many assumed that a return to elite sport at age 36 would be unlikely. But 8.5 months later, he was back playing professional football in Australia — and my Complete ACL Recovery Guide played a key role in that comeback.

Here’s how he used the guide, why it worked alongside full-time physios, and what you can learn from his experience.


From Surgery to Structured Rehab

Scott had already ruptured his ACL once before, so he knew how crucial proper rehab would be this time around. Despite having access to three full-time physiotherapists as part of his club setup, he was still searching for something more structured — a way to stay accountable, track milestones, and not miss a thing.

That’s when he came across the Complete ACL Recovery Guide.

“I didn’t want to step on anyone’s toes, but I knew I needed the guide as soon as I found it. I only wish I’d had it earlier. It saved me from bombarding my physios with questions and helped me keep them (and myself) accountable.”

Scott followed the guide alongside his physios, using it as a reference point throughout every stage of recovery. He printed a copy for home and kept the digital version bookmarked on his phone for gym sessions.


Why the Guide Helped — Even With 3 Full-Time Physios

While many people rely on the guide because they don’t have physio access, Scott’s experience shows that even with high-level support, having a clear, consistent structure is a game-changer.

He used the guide as:

  • ✅ A checklist to track key milestones like extension, flexion, and swelling
  • ✅ A framework to pace his return-to-sport testing
  • ✅ A communication tool to work more effectively with his physios

“The return-to-play protocols were spot on. The guide covers every aspect of recovery — from surgery prep to maintenance. Honestly, it’s like an ACL bible.”


The Results

At 36, returning to pro football isn’t something most athletes achieve post-ACL surgery. But Scott did — in just 8.5 months.

He regained full flexion, improved control and confidence, and used the guide for ongoing maintenance even after returning to play. He also used it to revisit key steps for his other ACL injury from 14 years earlier.


What This Means for You

Whether you’re working with a physio or not, the Complete ACL Recovery Guide gives you:

  • A proven roadmap
  • Milestone tracking
  • Objective testing
  • Support for the tough days

If it helped a pro footballer get back to sport at 36, imagine what it can do for your recovery.


Ready to Take Control of Your ACL Rehab?

The Complete ACL Recovery Guide is used by thousands worldwide — including professional athletes. It’s available instantly and includes everything from early post-op recovery to return-to-play testing.

Grab the guide here: Complete ACL Recovery From Surgery To Sport 

You only get one knee. Rehab it properly.


About the Author
Tilly Milverton is a sports therapist and ACL rehab specialist who has helped thousands of patients through structured, evidence-based recovery. She’s also recovered from ACL surgery herself — so she knows exactly what this journey takes.