AN Accrington Stanley player was today recovering at his Darwen home after an on-field collision left him in intensive care.

Defender Jonathan Smith, 21, right, suffered a ruptured blood vessel near his heart when Stanley keeper Jamie Speare collided with him as the pair tried to clear a corner.

The incident happened in the 64th minute of Stanley's home game against Whitley Bay in the UniBond League first division on Saturday.

Centre half Jonathan battled on after treatment - but collapsed on the side of the pitch with blood coming from his mouth as he was substituted in the 68th minute.

The game was held up but an ambulance arrived at the Crown Ground soon after and Jonathan was taken to Blackburn Royal Infirmary.

Stanley chairman Eric Whalley said: "We were very concerned for Jonathan at one point because there was blood coming from his mouth.

"He went up for the ball at a corner but unfortunately our keeper clobbered him as they tried to clear it. Jonathan had treatment from the physio who wanted him to go off, but he wasn't having any of it. A few minutes later he indicated he wasn't feeling well. We substituted him, but as he walked off he collapsed on the side of the pitch."

Jonathan spent several hours in intensive care before he was allowed to go home yesterday.

Mr Whalley added: "The manager John Coleman has spoken to his family and I talked to his father today. Everyone at the club wishes Jonathan a speedy recovery. He's a really keen, promising lad and he was joking he didn't think he'd be fit for the next match - I think we'll have to wait for the doctor's orders."

Stanley went on to win the match 3-0.

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