The father of Hungary forward Barnabas Varga has provided an update on his son's condition after he was involved in a horrific collision during the Euro 2024 clash against Scotland.
Varga was knocked unconscious after colliding with Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn as he went up for a free kick.
Gunn rushed out of his goal and jumped to punch the ball clear, but his trailing elbow struck Varga's head in a sickening impact.
BBC commentator Steve Wilson said that Hungary captain Dominik Szoboszlai was in tears after the incident, with the medical staff bringing blankets onto the pitch to shield Varga from the cameras while he underwent treatment.
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The forward was stretchered off and rushed to hospital, where it was later announced that he was in a stable condition.
Hungary manager Marco Rossi confirmed that Varga had suffered a fracture to his face, which would require surgery.
ESPN later expanded on this update, reporting that he had broken 'several bones' in his face as well as suffering a concussion. His injuries mean he will play no further part at Euro 2024.
Now, speaking to Hungarian outlet Nemzeti Sport, the player's father has confirmed that surgery has been performed.
He added: "Together with my wife, we are waiting for the news that Barni's sweetheart will send us.
"The operation has been performed, Barni's sweetheart will provide information on our child's condition every minute if necessary.
"It is not yet known when he will be released from the hospital in Stuttgart, nor how long he will miss.
"It's no secret, the family went through difficult moments in front of the television screen, but now we can be calmer."
Speaking after the game, Liverpool midfielder Szoboszlai called on UEFA to update their medical protocols after he was seen motioning for medical staff to reach the site of the collision quicker.
He said: "If our doctors say we need someone immediately to help, then I don't think they should walk.
"Even if the referee is saying don't go on, just go on. And if you can see it's nothing serious, then you can just go down and it's finished. But seconds can help a lot."
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Ryan Smart