Former Sunderland defender Paddy Almond is not out of the woods, but in a stable condition after picking up a bleed on the brain during Darlington's FA Trophy defeat to Southend. The former Black Cats trainee was taken off after 58 minutes, in just his third appearance for the club, less than a month after returning to fitness from a serious car crash last year.
Almond was on loan at Blyth Spartans at the time of the crash, only returning to football with Shildon in November after six months out injured. The defender was taken to The Royal London Hospital where he is being observed by medical staff to assess whether the player will need an operation. Now, fans of the club are rallying to show their support and have started a fund raiser in order to support him in his recovery.
READ MORE: Ex-Sunderland defender Paddy Almond suffers bleed on the brain in Darlington's FA Trophy defeat
Of of this morning, Tuesday, 17 January, the GoFundMe had raised over £8,000. Kevin Almond, Paddy's dad has also taken to social media to provide an update on his son's condition.
He tweeted: "In times of crisis we hope people will be there for us and our family. Can’t thank @Official_Darlo Club Physio @danny_oconnor28 enough for his efforts yesterday. To say he went above and beyond is an understatement. Our family and Paddy will forever be in your debt.
"Not out of the woods by any stretch, but nice to see him in person for sure. The grimace come smile is the best we are getting for now.
"Still in pain and taking each hour as it comes. Thanks for the messages of support & well wishes for Paddy it’s really appreciated."
A spokesman for Darlington FC said: "Our fans wanted to help Paddy financially as much as possible during this difficult time, and this GoFundMe campaign is typical of their huge generosity and goodwill. We are also grateful for all the support that Paddy has received from throughout the football world."
Newcastle United midfielder, Isaac Hayden, who is currently on loan at Norwich City, has donated to the fund raising efforts. Despite his serious condition, Paddy is eating and talking and in a 'stable condition' with Darlington FC also passing on their thanks to the specialists caring for their player in London.
A statement from the club read: "Paddy remains under close observation from specialists in the Royal London Hospital, and his condition is stable. A decision has yet to be made on whether an operation is necessary.
"Paddy is resting in bed, eating meals and speaking with his family. Everyone is grateful for the help of the specialists at the Royal London Hospital, and we continue to pray that Paddy has a swift recovery, and pass on our best wishes to him and his family."
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