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Bristol Post
Bristol Post
Sport
Sam Frost

Ex-Bristol Rovers player has heart monitor fitted and could play again after collapsing on pitch

Former Bristol Rovers defender Pablo Martinez has been told there is "no reason why he should not play football again" after having a heart monitor fitted.

The 21-year-old collapsed while playing for Chippenham Town against Chelmsford City last Saturday. He was stabilised and breathing by the time he was taken to Bristol Royal Infirmary.

Martinez remains in hospital while he recovers from the incident, which occurred in the 27th minute of the National League South fixture.

"The club can announce that having undergone various hospital tests, we understand that Pablo is to be fitted with a small heart monitor following last Saturday’s incident," a Chippenham spokesman said.

"The good news is that he has been told there is no reason why he should not play football again and, after surgery, there is an expectation he will be allowed home this weekend.

"On behalf of everyone connected with the club and our supporters, we send Pablo our very best wishes and hope to see him around the club soon."

Manchester United midfielder Christian Eriksen and Ajax defender Daley Blind are among elite players who have heart monitoring implants.

Martinez joined Rovers as a development squad player in 2020 after being released by West Bromwich Albion. He would go on to make 12 appearances for the Gas across two seasons in defence and midfield, with loan spells at Oxford City and Gloucester City.

He was released by Rovers after their promotion to League One in May and he joined the Bluebirds in July.

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