Former Brighton star Enock Mwepu 'recovering in hospital' after heart complaint

Former Brighton midfielder Enock Mwepu is recovering in hospital after suffering a health scare, according to a fresh report.

The former Premier League star is under medical supervision in his homeland following a heart complaint, according to GOAL. He had reportedly taken himself to hospital after feeling some discomfort.

The Zambian Observer claimed earlier today Mwepu suffered a suspected heart attack on Sunday morning and was rushed to the University Teaching Hospital.

The Zambian publication alleged that the incident took place while Mwepu was driving towards Kabangwe, a town on the outskirts of the Zambian capital, Lusaka. Indeed, his car was allegedly seen swerving on a major road.

However, a source confirmed to GOAL that Mwepu suffered a heart complaint rather than a heart attack and he did not collapse while out driving as had been reported.

Mwepu was forced to retire aged just 24 in October (Alamy)

He is said to be well enough to have been in contact with doctors back in the UK.

Having been a star of Brighton’s midfield last term, Mwepu was forced to retire at the age of just 24 in October after a hereditary heart condition was uncovered.

Mwepu’s October diagnosis

Mwepu was diagnosed with a rare heart problem in October and was told he risked suffering a potentially fatal cardiac event if he continues playing.

Brighton said in a statement at the time: "The condition, which can worsen over time, would put Enock at an extremely high risk of suffering a potentially fatal cardiac event if he were to continue playing competitive football,"

The health problem was not seen on previous cardiac screening tests, which top-level players routinely undergo each season.

The issue had been unearthed after he was taken ill on a flight to join up with his Zambia teammates.

In a moving statement on Twitter confirming his retirement, Mwepu wrote: "A boy from a small Zambian township called Chambishi has some news to share. He stood strong to follow his dream of playing football at the highest level, and by the grace of God, he lived his dream by reaching the Premier League.

"Some dreams however come to an end, so it is with sadness that I announce the need to hang up my boots because of the medical advice I have received. This is however not the end of my involvement with football, I plan to stay involved in some capacity.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone that supported me in my football journey, including my wife and family, my agent 12MAN, the Zambian FA, all my previous clubs, teammates and coaches, and especially everyone at Brighton and Hove Albion."

Upon his retirement, it was announced in December that Mwepu would return to Brighton as a coach for their under-9 team.