Newcastle star Fabian Schar knocked unconscious in sickening clash of heads but still plays on for Switzerland
Players and medics rushed to aid of defender as he lay flat out on the pitch but concussion protocols ignored as he was allowed to keep playing
NEWCASTLE defender Fabian Schar was knocked unconscious in a sickening clash of heads – but was amazingly allowed to play on by medics.
Schar was out cold before he hit the floor after smashing heads with Jemal Tabidze during Switzerland’s Euro 2020 match in Georgia.
The 27-year-old’s legs buckled under him as he landed on the floor following the aerial challenge, leaving him flat out on his back.
The Newcastle star lay motionless with his arms wide out, leading to players from both sides rushing to his aid believing he may have swallowed his tongue.
They rolled the Swiss star into the recovery position by the time team medics had rushed out onto the pitch in Tblisi.
But after four minutes of treatment Schar rose to his feet and was then given the all-clear to resume playing.
Georgia full-back Tabidze suffered a bad cut in the clash, and he ended up playing with bandages wrapped around his face and head.
The sight of Schar – who has been a regular for the Toon this season and chipped in with three goals – returning to action looked to be a clear ignorance of the concussion protocols in football.
Players who are suspected of being concussed are not allowed to play, but despite Schar clearly being out cold Premier League ref Craig Pawson was happy for him to continue.
The incident is sure to be looked at by those who believe football does not do enough to protect players from serious head injuries.
