CARDIFF CITY star Alex Smithies is being assessed after being carried off on a stretcher during his side’s clash with Bristol City.
The goalkeeper required medical treatment after going down in the ninth minute of the Championship fixture at Ashton Gate.
Cardiff City were forced to substitute keeper Alex Smithies early onCredit: Getty Images – Getty
The 30-year-old left the Bluebirds game against Bristol City on a stretcherCredit: PA:Press Association
Speaking after the match, boss Mick McCarthy said: “I’ve just been in to see him in the physio room, and he’s sitting up.
“He looked very ill at the time and was brought off on a stretcher which looked worrying, but I’ve been in to see him and he seems okay.
“We’re investigating it.”
Smithies, 30, was treated by members of Cardiff’s medical staff during a significant break in play.
He was carried off the pitch on a stretcher but encouragingly was sitting upright when he was substituted.
Smithies was replaced by Dillon Phillips while Cardiff posted on Twitter: “Alex Smithies receiving treatment. No involvement in play.”
The Bluebirds later added: “Dillon Phillips replaces Alex Smithies. Thinking of you, Alex!”
One fan responded: “Wishing Alex a speedy recovery. Sounded bad.”
Another said: “Hope he’s ok. Looked unsteady on his feet as he walked to the by-line. Wishing him well.”
A third added: “Hope Alex is going to be okay!”
A fourth wrote: “Speedy recovery Alex!”
However the loss of their first-team keeper seemed to spur Cardiff on as they broke the deadlock minutes later.
Curtis Nelson headed home from a Harry Wilson free-kick before Kieffer Moore scored a header as well to double the away sides lead.
The Welsh outfit have since moved up to 14th in the table, five points behind Bristol City.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
