19th March, 2012
Football united in rallying around Fabrice Muamba, willing the stricken Bolton midfielder to win his greatest fight.
From a titan such as Alex Ferguson to the youngest fans at grounds around the country, applause rang out saluting the England Under-21 star.
It was an outpouring of love and hope from London to Newcastle via Wolverhampton and Liverpool for Muamba, as he fought for his life at the London Chest Hospital in Bethnal Green.
Bolton boss Owen Coyle, along with his chairman Phil Gartside, visited Muamba and admitted the passion for his star from around the country had helped the player’s family to cope.
Coyle said: “From our end, and on behalf of the family, we certainly want to say thanks to everybody. Everybody is praying for Fabrice, which is very important, and that has been a real source of strength to the family.
“It is all well and good having a God-given gift and being a great footballer, which Fabrice certainly is, but it is more important to be a good person.
“Fab is a wonderful lad, with a great sense of humour and a beautiful smile, and he is well liked by anyone who has come into contact with him.
Galaxy of America midfielder David Beckham said: “It’s hard. Our thoughts as a club and individually, from my family, all go to his family, his friends. We just hope he pulls through,” Beckham said following Galaxy’s 3-1 Major League Soccer victory over D.C. United. “It’s a tough time for him and his family, of course. But he’s got a lot of support out there, he’s got a lot of love out there — not just from the football in England, but from the whole world. We just hope he pulls through.”
A string of players including Rio Ferdinand, Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie tweeted messages of support.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Real Madrid and other stars in La Liga also sent their “get well soon” messages to Fabrice and his family. The player, it was gathered is still in critical condition as at this afternoon.