Footballer declared dead after collapsing in pre-season match ‘wakes up’ in mortuary and is rushed to hospital

SportFootball A FOOTBALLER is fighting for his life after waking up in a mortuary – having been pronounced dead hours earlier. Katsina United fans feared the worst when Chinedu Ozor collapsed during the early stages of a pre-season showdown against Niger Tornadoes. Chinedu Ozor was pronounced dead after collapsing in a pre-season friendly Credit: Instagram / katsinaunitedfc But the defender started moving at the mortuary Credit: Instagram / katsinaunitedfc And, having been checked by concerned doctors, the defender was declared dead. But medics were stunned when Ozor later moved his hand while at the mortuary. Sign up for the Football newsletter Thank you! The Nigerian has been rushed to the intensive care unit at Katsina General Hospital, where he is on oxygen as doctors frantically work to revive and stabilise him. Heartland, who are among Ozor’s former clubs, shocked fans when they released a statement. It read: “Reliable sources say Chinedu Ozor has been moved from the mortuary to the hospital after reportedly showing signs of movement. “He is currently on oxygen as medics work to revive him.” The unexpected update came after Katsina initially headed onto social media to claim Ozor had died. The statement read: “We mourn the tragic passing of our newly signed player Chinedu Ozor following a medical emergency during today’s friendly match against Niger Tornadoes. Most read in Sport “Our thoughts, prayers and strength are with his family and loved ones. Rest on Warrior.” Katsina press officer Nasir Gide added: “When we rushed him to a nearby hospital, he was confirmed dead by a doctor. “We collected a police report and took him back to Katsina General Hospital, where he was also said to be dead.” The Nigeria Premier Football League and Kano Pillars, who are among Ozor’s ex-employers, paid tribute following the incorrect news of his passing. Rivers United general manager Okey Kpalukwu also spoke out when shockwaves were sent through Nigerian football. He said: “We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones and to the management, players, staff and supporters of Katsina United. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Nigerian football family during this difficult time.” Ozor only completed a move to Katsina earlier this month as preparations were made for the new season. Comment now