Stuart Pearce earns rousing Nottingham Forest roar during Man City Premier League clash

The former England international took ill while on a flight from Las Vegas

Robbie Chalmers Sports Trends Writer

13:12, 08 Mar 2025Updated 13:23, 08 Mar 2025

LED screen, which displays a message which reads "get well soon Stuart" at the City Ground(Image: Getty Images)

Stuart Pearce was paid a touching roar by his adoring Nottingham Forest during their match with Manchester City.

The England icon fell ill during a flight from Las Vegas to London on Monday. The flight was diverted to Canada, while he received treatment from Virgin Atlantic staff and trained passengers. Pearce is now recovering in hospital.

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And Nottingham Forest fans wanted to make their voices heard in support during their Premier League clash with Pep Guardiola's side at the City Ground. During the third minute, thousands of Forest fans gave a rousing standing ovation in support in a nod to the number 3 shirt he wore during his playing days with Forest.

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The talkSPORT pundit and co-commentator was given a positive update by colleague Sam Matterface ahead of the game.

“I spoke to him yesterday, he was in great spirits," Matterface said. “He isn’t 100 per cent - that is definitely the case. But he’s in the right place in the hospital. They’re dealing with it. He’s a little bit disappointed about not being here today. He actually said to me, ‘I’ve got so much I’ve had to cancel. Great games and Mumford and Sons are playing next Wednesday night and I can’t go!"

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Fans stood in support in their thousands(Image: Getty Images)

A Virgin Atlantic spokesperson said: "Due to an unwell customer onboard, the VS156 on March 2 flying from Las Vegas to London Heathrow diverted to St John’s International Airport, Canada and was met by the medical services."

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