Family of the Newcastle supporter who collapsed issue statement on his condition

"He is looking forward to getting back to St. James’ Park as soon as possible"

The family of a supporter who required emergency medical care during Newcastle's Premier League match against Tottenham Hotspur have released a statement to update fans on his condition. Alan George Smith, 80, collapsed during the first half of the fixture and the game was suspended while his condition was stabilised. The game was temporarily halted after Spurs' Sergio Reguilon was alerted by a member of the home crowd that a supporter required urgent medical attention. The full-back then informed referee Andre Marriner, who took the decision to suspend the game while Eric Dier grabbed the attention of the medical staff, at which point Newcastle club doctor Dr Paul Catterson attended the scene to also help. Medical professionals were on hand to help out with members of the crowd also doing what they could to provide a helping hand, including Dr Pritchard who is a member of the North Tees A&E regiment as he helped to perform life-saving treatment. Mr Smith was taken to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle city centre before he was transferred to the Freeman Hospital for specialist care. Newcastle had confirmed that the fan was in a stable condition, and Mr Smith's family have now released a statement updating supporters on his current condition. https://twitter.com/NUFC/status/1450817211799592966

Mr Smith’s son, Paul, said: "We are pleased to advise that Alan is making great progress, is now fully alert and is up and walking about. He will remain in hospital over the next few days while further tests are carried out.