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Former Brighton midfielder Enock Mwepu in hospital after being taken ill in his native Zambia

Former Brighton midfielder Enock Mwepu is undergoing tests in hospital after being taken ill in his native Zambia, it has been revealed.

Mwepu was forced to retire from football at the age of 24 in October having being diagnosed with a potentially life-threatening heart condition.

Mwepu joined the Seagulls in July 2021 for a club-record £20million but sadly had to cut his career short
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Mwepu joined the Seagulls in July 2021 for a club-record £20million but sadly had to cut his career shortCredit: getty

The Zambia international had fallen ill on a flight to meet up with his national teammates and spent time in hospital in Mali before returning to Brighton, where tests revealed the hereditary condition.

In a statement published on their website on Sunday, Brighton said: "The club can provide the following update on Enock Mwepu, in response to media reports.

"Enock was taken unwell in Zambia and is currently undergoing precautionary checks. Our medical team is in communication with the hospital to assist if required.

"The club would like to thank the many well wishers for their messages and support. The club nor Enock wish to provide any further comment at this stage."

Following his retirement, Mwepu wrote on Twitter that he had achieved his dream of playing football at the highest level, adding: "Some dreams however come to an end, so it is with sadness I announce the need to hang up my boots because of medical advice I have received.

"This is however not the end of my involvement with football, I plan to stay involved in some capacity."

Brighton issued a statement on Mwepu's health following reports he'd been taken ill
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Brighton issued a statement on Mwepu's health following reports he'd been taken illCredit: Getty

In December, Mwepu was appointed under-9s coach in Brighton's academy from January.

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