Fiorentina have confirmed that midfielder Edoardo Bove is awake, alert and has spoken to his family after collapsing on the pitch during yesterday's match against Inter Milan.
Bove, 22, fell to the ground in harrowing scenes midway through the first half, with medical staff rushing onto the pitch after his team-mates and Inter's players called for help. The Serie A clash was eventually abandoned, with both teams visibly distressed after witnessing the incident.
After spending the night in hospital, Bove's club have now confirmed: "ACF Fiorentina has announced that Edoardo Bove, following an uneventful night, was awakened and extubated this morning. He is currently awake, alert and oriented.
"He has spoken with his family, club management, the coach and his team-mates, who all rushed to go and see him as soon as they heard the good news. Further tests will be carried out in the coming days to establish what led to the critical situation that took place yesterday.
"The doctors at Careggi University Hospital who are treating the player have confirmed that diagnostic tests are ongoing. Fiorentina would like to thank Careggi University Hospital and all of the doctors and staff for the wonderful humanity and professionalism they have shown.
"The club would also like to thank the wider Fiorentina family and the entire world of football who, during this difficult time, have shown great sympathy and care through their messages and support, which have been of great comfort to both to the club and Edoardo and his family."
Bove's parents and girlfriend are at hospital with him, along with Fiorentina manager Raffaele Palladino and most of his team-mates. The mayor of Florence is also there.
Club president Rocco Commisso had said in a statement: "Forza Edoardo, we're with you. You're a strong boy with a great character. We're reaching out to the boy's family during these moments."
Bove is spending the season with Fiorentina after joining the Italian side on loan from Roma in August. The 22-year-old, who's represented Italy at youth level, lost consciousness during a VAR check in the 16th minute when the game was still 0-0. The fixture will be replayed at a later date.
Fiorentina next play on Wednesday, hosting Empoli in the Coppa Italia.
