Martin Skrtel has yet again lived up to his warrior reputation by playing on after being knocked motionless whilst playing for Slovakia in the King’s Cup final against Thailand on Sunday.
The former Liverpool defender was hit in the head by the ball at close-range before tumbling to the ground and being left momentarily unconscious.
Teammate Ondrej Duda reacted quickly to tend to Skrtel and prevent the defender from swallowing his tongue whilst lying flat on his back.
Team medics swiftly arrived to continue the 33-year-old’s treatment as he slowly rediscovered his bearings.
(Sensitive footage)
Relieved to hear Martin Skrtel is okay after getting knocked out and swallowing his tongue today pic.twitter.com/dzra8KCyqH
— Ste Carson (@sjrcarson) March 25, 2018
Skrtel astonishingly rejoined the game after recovering and played on until the 72nd minute, with Slovakia running out eventual 3-2 winners.
Thanks a lot for all the fans who care about me! I m OK Dont worry!
🤲 pic.twitter.com/HUaL4wfkc3— Martin Skrtel (@Skrtl_Martin) March 25, 2018
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Nothing has changed for the ex-Red from his time at Anfield in terms of little being capable of keeping him down.
Though he may have divided opinion at times during his time on Merseyside, few could turn a blind eye to his heart and determination once out on the pitch.
We wish you well, Martin!