Bolton midfielder Fabrice Muamba suddenly collapsed in the 42nd minute in the FA Cup quarter-finals against Spurs. He was given cardiac massage, mouth to mouth, and de-fibrillated in an effort to resuscitate him before being stretchered off. Bolton issued a statement saying he was “critically ill.” The match was quickly abandoned by mutual consent.
Muamba came up from the Arsenal youth system as a “walk in”. With fellow Gunners Seb Larsson and Nicklas Bendtner, they took Birmingham back to the Premiership in 2007. His loan deal was made permanent after making quite the impression in the Birmingham midfield. The Blues, however were relegated after that year in the top flight and soon after Bolton came knocking.
Muamba’s Arsenal return dimmed in the post Gilberto era with the rise of Alex Song, Abou Diaby, and Mathieu Flamini in the crowded Arsenal midfield. Today, Arsenal remembered him praising a player who impressed every one with his warmth, work ethic, and desire to succeed.
The latest report has Muamba battling back according to Kevin Davies, the Bolton captain, who accompanied his stricken team mate to the hospital.
Our thoughts and prayers with Muamba. Here is hoping he pulls through. A shout out to all the Spurs and Bolton fans who were magnificent in their support. And kudos to the para-medics for responding so quickly to what was obviously a life threatening condition.