Manchester United U21s National League Cup match vs Tamworth on Wednesday evening was abandoned after Sekou Kone suffered a horror injury.
With the deadlock yet to be broken, Kone suffered the injury in the 42nd minute after a sickening clash of heads with an opponent inside his own box. The 19-year-old initially stood up but then fell to the turf once more.
Medics rushed over to treat the youngster and he was on the ground for around 15 minutes before being put on a stretcher and taken off the pitch. He wore a mask as he was carried off and was later taken to hospital for further treatment.
The referee initially called an early end to the half as both sets of players made their way back into the dressing room. The Manchester Evening News have reported that a replacement ambulance was required and the lengthy delay forced the fixture to be called off.
Man Utd Provide Update on Sekou Kone's Condition
Man United corner flag
Man United have provided an update on Kone's condition. A statement on their official website read: "Manchester United's National League Cup game at Tamworth was abandoned close to the end of the first half.
"The tie was halted due to a head injury suffered by Reds midfielder Sekou Kone, inside his own box, and the youngster was taken off on a stretcher.
"We can confirm Sekou is conscious, stable and communicating with United’s medical team. He has been taken to hospital, as a precaution, for further checks. Everybody at the club wishes him a speedy recovery."
Tamworth have also posted a statement. It read: "Due to the medical situation, we are forced to abandon tonight’s fixture, details will be revealed in due course. We would like to wish safe travels to all the Man Utd fans, staff and players. We especially wish Sekou Kone a speedy recovery."
Kone is highly-rated at Manchester United. The Malian, who has represented his country at U17 and U20 level, joined the Red Devils last year in a deal worth over £1million.
The defensive midfielder, who shone at last year's U17 World Cup as his side finished third, has been compared to Yaya Youre for his all-action displays in the middle of midfield.
While he is yet to make his competitive Man Utd debut, he joined United's first team on their pre-season tour of Asian this summer and featured in their matches against Asean All-Stars and Hong Kong.