Soccer star winning fight for life after head clash
FOOTBALL star Ryan Mason was able to speak yesterday as he recovered from a devastating head clash that left him fighting for life.
The England international midfielder’s family and friends were given the good news as he appeared to be making progress after emergency surgery.
Hull City’s Mason, 25, suffered a fractured skull and bleeding on the brain in a sickening clash of heads with Chelsea’s Gary Cahill at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.
Mason was given oxygen as he was treated on the pitch for nine minutes before being rushed to St Mary’s Hospital in Paddington.
His fiancee Rachel Peters was at his bedside as he recovered from the nightmare injury.
The couple became engaged 10 weeks ago after Mason proposed during a break in Dubai.
Cahill, 31, dashed to the hospital with Chelsea captain John Terry and assistant first team coach Steve Holland shortly after the match which ended in a 2-0 defeat for Hull.
They were unable to see Mason as he was still in the operating theatre but they spent time with his parents, who had been watching the game from the stands.
Yesterday Mason was well enough to receive visitors who included Hull captain Michael Dawson, the club doctor and two other officials. Hull City said: “Ryan has been speaking of the incident and will continue to be monitored over the coming days. The club will remain in close contact with Ryan, his family and the staff at St Mary’s.” Football stars worldwide sent “get well” messages yesterday.
Real Madrid’s Gareth Bale wrote: “Thoughts are with you and your family Mase. Stay strong!”
Arsenal defender Hector Bellerin wrote: “During times like these teams and colours make no difference. Get well soon Ryan.” Hull’s spokesman said: “Ryan and his family have been touched by the overwhelming support received.”
Mason is a popular member of the first team at Hull since making a club record £13million move from Tottenham in the summer.
Peter McCabe, chief executive of brain injury charity Headway, said: “I was at the match and it was encouraging to see the exemplary reaction of the medical teams.”