A fanatical Barnet fan critically injured when he was hit by a train is expected to return home this week - two months after he was given a one in a million' chance of survival.

Gareth Needham, 24, known to fellow Bees' fans as Donny Gaz' because he travels to Barnet games home and away from his Doncaster home, lost a leg and was left in a coma after being hit by a train near Doncaster station, on December 9 last year. He was returning home after watching Barnet play Wycombe Wanderers.

Gareth suffered serious head injuries and doctors feared he may not survive.

But tomorrow, after ten weeks in hospital, he is due to go back to the family home in Bessacarr, Doncaster, where he will continue his rehabilitation. He will require daily medical care and although his speech is normal and long-term memory intact, his short-term memory has been affected. He is due to have an artificial leg fitted.

Ann-Marie Needham, Gareth's mother, said: "He is desperate to go home and be in familiar surroundings.

"Obviously we are delighted he is coming home. We never thought the day would come, so it's wonderful news."

Gareth's father, Graham, said soon after the accident he hoped to bring Gareth down to Barnet's Underhill stadium before the season finishes in May to thank the fans and club for their support. Asked if that was still the plan, Mrs Needham said: "It depends if he's well enough. Gareth would love to go but it would involve two hours in the car. He would of course say yes'.

"He had a massive brain injury but he's still the same happy Gaz and he's still the same lad we had before.

"He had a one in a million chance of surviving, but he's done it."

Mrs Needham praised the support from Barnet supporters and club officials, adding: "Barnet is his number one."

Despite his impending homecoming, Gareth will continue to need close medical attention.

"He was very seriously ill and his brain needs a lot of work," Mrs Needham said.