Fundraiser launched for young footballer left paralysed in match collision

A fundraiser has been launched for a teenage footballer who was left paralysed after breaking his neck during a game.

Declan McDonald was playing for Coatbridge side AC Rovers when he was badly injured in a collision with another player.

The 16-year-old injured his spinal cord in the incident and underwent a ten-hour surgery at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow on Tuesday.

Over £12,000 has since been raised for the youngster, who has been left in paralysis and unable to move, on a GoFundMe page launched by his “devastated” teammates.

It is believed that the teenager will be unable to walk again but it is hoped that he will regain some feeling and use of his arms and hands after rehab.

Declan’s stepdad was a coach for AC Rovers’ 2007 side when the incident unfolded during a game against EK Burgh.

A statement from the club released on Wednesday said: “Firstly the club would like to pass on our immense thanks for the outpouring of support to Declan, his family, his team and the club.

“Declan’s team mates, as devastated as they all are, have put this fundraiser together as they wanted to do something and on top of this we are being asked by many if they can donate. So we just want to share the link for everyone who has asked.

“As a club we are holding discussions and will announce plans soon to do something for Declan and will announce it here in the very near future.”

Donations to the GoFundMe page can be made here: Fundraiser by Sean Brown : Declan’s Recovery (gofundme.com)