Stuart Pearce recovering in Canada after mid-air medical emergency
What's the story
Former England footballer Stuart Pearce is recovering in a Canadian hospital after he fell ill on a Virgin Atlantic flight.
The 62-year-old was on his way to London from Las Vegas when he fell sick, forcing the plane to change its course, as reported by The Sun.
The aircraft landed at St John's International Airport, where Pearce was given immediate medical attention by onboard staff and medically-trained passengers before being taken to the hospital.
Here are further details.
Situation update
Pearce's condition update and public support
Talksport, a sports radio station where Pearce often features as a pundit and co-commentator, gave an update on his health during their coverage of Nottingham Forest's Premier League (PL) match against Manchester City.
Sam Matterface from Talksport said, "I spoke to him yesterday [Friday] and he was in great spirits."
"He's a little bit disappointed about not being here today. He said to me: 'I've got so much I've had to cancel - great games," he further added.
Airline response
Virgin Atlantic's statement on flight diversion
Reacting to the incident, a Virgin Atlantic representative released a statement confirming the flight diversion owing to an unwell customer.
The airline apologized for any delay caused by the unexpected change in their travel schedule. They stressed their commitment to prioritizing "the safety and wellbeing of our customers and crew."
Pearce had been in the US for a Super League game between Wigan Warriors and Warrington Wolves before his medical emergency.
Career highlights
Pearce's illustrious football career and recent roles
Pearce had an illustrious football career, spending a significant part of it with Nottingham Forest.
He also played for clubs like Coventry City, West Ham United, Newcastle United, and Manchester City.
He represented England 78 times in his playing days and was caretaker-manager of the national team for one game in 2012.
His most recent coaching role was as first-team coach at West Ham until May 2022.
Forest vs City
Forest beat City, this will improve Pearce's spirits
In a thrilling Premier League gameweek 28 encounter at the City Ground, Forest pulled off a significant victory, defeating Manchester City 1-0.
The match was defined by Callum Hudson-Odoi's late-game heroics, who scored in the 83rd minute.
This win has major implications for both teams' standings in the Premier League and their pursuit of Champions League qualification.
After 28 matches, Forest are third in the Premier League standings with 51 points (W15 D6 L7).