Manchester United have issued an official update on the condition of teenage midfielder Sekou Kone after his worrying head injury.
The United Under-21s saw their National League Cup game against Tamworth abandoned around the half-time.
The Red Devils have now confirmed on ManUtd.com: “Sekou is conscious, stable and communicating with United’s medical team.
“He has been taken to hospital, as a precaution, for further checks.”
This is a really positive update from the club after Kone was stretchered off and seen holding a mask to his face.
The 19-year-old suffered the blow following a nasty clash of heads and an awkward landing on the turf.
Medical teams and paramedics sprinted onto the pitch to give him immediate attention. Kone stood up with the help of physios shortly after but was quickly instructed to lie down again.
The midfielder moved to United from the Malian side Guidars FC last summer. He spent last season with the youth set-up, adapting to the intensity and pace of English football.
Despite a short spell on the sidelines through injury, Kone earned plaudits from coaches for his tactical intelligence and ball-winning ability.
The teenager is traditionally a holding midfielder and is seen as a long-term replacement for Casemiro.
There was speculation over a loan move to INEOS-owned Lausanne this summer, but United opted to keep him in Manchester.
He reportedly “impressed” head coach Ruben Amorim and his staff in training.
With the departure of Christian Eriksen, United have a vacant slot in the midfield. The Red Devils are exploring ways to sign Brighton & Hove Albion star Carlos Baleba this summer.
If the deal for Baleba is not completed before the conclusion of the transfer window, Amorim could fast-track Kone into the senior squad permanently.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com