Szmodics thanks medics after being knocked unconscious
Derby forward Sam Szmodics praises medical staff who helped him after being knocked unconscious in World Cup play-off.
Sam Szmodics (grounded) has made 11 appearances for the Republic of Ireland [Getty Images] Derby forward Sam Szmodics has praised the medical staff who helped him after he was knocked unconscious while playing for the Republic of Ireland in their World Cup play-off defeat by the Czech Republic on Tuesday night. The 30-year-old, who is on loan at the Rams from Ipswich Town, was left on the ground in Prague following an aerial challenge, six minutes after coming on as a substitute in extra-time. He left the pitch on a stretcher and was taken to hospital where head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson confirmed shortly after the game he was conscious.
"Gutted the way it ended. Fans and boys immense all evening," Szmodics said in a post on X. "Appreciate everyone's messages and thank you to the medical staff who acted so quickly to help me.
On the mend. " The Republic led 2-0 inside 25 minutes of the tie only to be pegged back by the home side and go on to lose 4-3 on penalties.