Man to stand trial accused of ‘endangering life’ of ex-player

Man denies assault charge after former footballer ended up in coma

A man is to stand trial accused of attacking a former Dundee FC player – leaving him seriously injured and endangering his life.

Robert Chambers yesterday denied a charge of assaulting former Dens Park youth star John Black to his “severe injury, permanent impairment, permanent disfigurement and to the danger of his life”.

It is alleged Chambers punched the 20-year-old, from Blairgowrie, on the head, causing him to fall back and strike his head on the ground.

At a pre-trial hearing at Dundee Sheriff Court Chambers, 24, of Craigmount Road, Dundee, denied the charge on indictment.

It is alleged he carried out the attack on October 8 in Old Hawkhill, Dundee – a street close to Dundee University and lined with popular bars.

Defence solicitor Anne Duffy said: “He pleads not guilty to the charge on the indictment. There is a notice of special defence of self defence. I can advise that the forensics, provenance of the DVD evidence, arrest and detention procedures and interview can be agreed.

“The case rests on the eyewitnesses.” Fiscal depute Nicola Gillespie said the Crown was ready for trial and expected it to last three days.

Sheriff Alastair Carmichael set a trial date in August and released Chambers on bail meantime.

Black was put in a medically-induced coma following the alleged incident after being found unconscious on Hawkhill on October 8 2017.

He underwent surgery to replace part of his skull but was left suffering double vision, anxiety and concentration issues.

His subsequent recovery astounded doctors but heartbreak was to follow as the promising footballer was forced to admit his playing career was over.

His fundraising campaign led to a donation of more than £3,500 being handed to the neurology department at Ninewells Hospital.

John Black during his days with Dundee FC. He was left in a coma and has had to admit his playing days are now over.