Fabrice Muamba: Footballing world prays for recovery

The world of football and beyond united in its thoughts for the young, gifted Bolton Wanderers footballer Fabrice Muamba who unexpectedly collapsed after suffering a cardiac arrest during the FA cup clash against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday.

After so much negativity in English football in recent months, the game regained much of its integrity in the way it responded to such a public tragedy.

The match itself was quickly abandoned by referee Howard Webb who, along with the players and managers, realised the seriousness of the incident. Fans from both sides too showed compassion and sympathy in their understanding that the concern for Muamba was much greater than the match itself.

Fabrice Muamba remains in a very critical situation. Medical reports say that his heart stopped beating for two hours without assistance.

Let's all hope and pray that this young man makes a full and complete recovery.

Our thoughts are with you Fabrice.

Simon Woolley

Image: (from left) Former Bolton team-mate Gary Cahill reveals a message after scoring for Chelsea on Sunday; Fabrice Muamba with his young son Joshua; Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo carries message of support; banner carried by Liverpool supporters at their game against Stoke City