Lille coach says ‘reassuring news’ on Gomes after head injury

Lille coach Bruno Genesio said he had received “reassuring news” on Angel Gomes after the midfielder was taken to hospital Saturday following a clash of heads in a Ligue 1 match that knocked him unconscious.

The former Manchester United player was left motionless lying on his back after a collision with Reims midfielder Amadou Kone, who was sent off as a result of the challenge.

Players from both sides immediately called for the medical staff as team-mates placed the stricken Gomes in the recovery position and formed a circle around him.

After receiving lengthy treatment, the ex-England Under-21 international was strapped to a stretcher and carried off the pitch, to applause from the Stade Auguste-Delaune.

“The latest news is rather reassuring, but it’s better to be careful,” Lille coach Bruno Genesio said after his team’s 2-0 victory.

“Angel asked if he was going to play (next) Saturday. It’s a good sign if he has a sense of humour. The match was secondary for me tonight.”

“Angel was conscious when he was carried out. I know he spoke, he asked about the result, he showed he’s in good spirits, but I think we have to wait a bit.” 

Genesio admitted to feeling “very, very scared” after the incident and criticised Kone for his involvement.

“There are things we shouldn’t see on a pitch. There are fouls you can excuse. This one for me is not one,” he said.

The match eventually restarted in the 45th minute after a 30-minute delay. 

Bafode Diakite scored Lille’s opener during the 34 minutes added to the end of the first half and Jonathan David netted a late second for the visitors.

Lille president Olivier Letang said the club would wait for the full hospital test results before giving any timeframe for Gomes’ return to action.