NUFC star Lovenkrands in hospital after pitch collapse

Apr 4 2009 By Matt McKenzie

Newcastle midfielder Peter Lovenkrands was rushed to hospital wearing breathing apparatus after collapsing in agony during his side’s 2-0 defeat by Chelsea.

The 29-year-old Dane was hurt in a collision with Florent Malouda, who appeared to catch him accidentally in the back with an elbow as the pair challenged for a ball.

Lovenkrands received extensive treatment on the pitch and then off it after being replaced by Damien Duff, and was eventually carried around the perimeter on a stretcher to warm applause.

Manager Alan Shearer later revealed he had experienced difficulty in breathing, but had been stabilised after being taken to hospital.

Shearer said: ``He got a very, very nasty knock on his back and he was actually struggling to breathe.

``They had to put the breathing apparatus on when he got into the dressing room.

``Thankfully, he went off to hospital and they have now stabilised him and hopefully, he will be okay."