FORMER DERRY CAPTAIN Kevin McCloy regained consciousness yesterday after collapsing during a club match last Wednesday night.
The second round Derry club championship match was abandoned after paramedics were called to the pitch 10 minutes into the game.
The 35-year-old was playing for his Erin’s Own club in Lavey, of which he is the captain, against Magherfelt at Owenbeg sportsgrounds.
Two days after being admitted into hospital, McCloy woke up and spoke with family members at his bedside in Altnagelvin hospital yesterday evening.
According to former Armagh midfielder Jarlath Burns, the first thing the teak-tough full-back wanted to know was “who won the match?”.
Kevin McCloy wakens up and first question ‘Who won the match’? Brilliant news!!— Jarlath Burns (@jburns834) August 16, 2014
McCloy, a former intercounty dual star, received treatment at the scene last weekend, before being transferred to hospital. The Derry legend’s family were quick to acknowledge the players, match officials, and the two club’s medical teams for their swift response to the incident.
In a statement released by his family after Kevin regained consciousness, they have again thanked those who tended to Kevin at Owenbeg.
“Kevin is stable and his condition is continuing to improve,” the statement read.
“Whilst receiving care and attention at Altnagelvin Hospital, where his progress is being monitored. Kevin’s wife Cathy and family are very thankful and happy for the care and attention he has been receiving.
“The family is very thankful for those who attended to Kevin on Wednesday night at Owenbeg football grounds. We would also like to thank all those who have sent good wishes and prayers. At this time the family request that their privacy is respected.”
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