Former Crystal Palace and Everton winger Yannick Bolasie has been hospitalised in Brazil after suffering a pancreas injury in a scary pitch collision.
The 37-year-old was taken to hospital during Chapecoense's Sunday Copa do Brasil clash against Cruzeiro after being caught by opposition player Kaique Kenji at the end of the first half. Bolasie immediately went down and clutched his stomach as medics ran onto the pitch.
The DR Congo international was able to walk off the pitch, but couldn't carry on and later was sent to hospital. It was then discovered he had suffered an injury to his pancreas, and reports from Brazil claim he is set to spend several weeks in recovery. A full timeline for his return has not yet been set.
Statement from Bolasie's camp
A statement, re-shared on his Instagram story, said: "Just a quick update to everyone who has been seeking news and wishing Bolasie well since yesterday: as everyone knows, yesterday he suffered a very strong impact to his rib area, resulting in his hospitalization.
"He is currently stable but will undergo further tests and remains under observation. Thank you all for your messages of support and well wishes. God willing, everything will be alright soon."
Career journey
Bolasie only moved to Chapecoense earlier this year as the winger plays out his final days in South America, having spent the peak part of his career in England's top flight. His rise saw him start in non-league with Hillingdon Borough before making a name for himself in the Premier League.
His most recent stint in English football was in the Championship with Swansea City, but he's spent the last three years in Brazil playing with several teams. His time in Europe also included spells at Anderlecht, Sporting Lisbon and Caykur Rizespor.
Best days at Crystal Palace
Bolasie arguably enjoyed his best days under Alan Pardew at Crystal Palace, when the Eagles were enjoying a purple patch. Pardew famously claimed he would only sell his winger for £60 million in 2015, a fee that would have been mouthwatering for a mid-table player at the time.
