English-born Nigerian footballer Jordan Chiedozie is fighting for his life after being struck by a car while checking a flat tyre.
The 30-year-old, son of ex-Tottenham winger John Okechukwu Chiedozie, is currently in a coma following the devastating accident. He plays for Bashley FC in the Southern League I.
Chiedozie and club physio Reighan Taylor were returning from a match against Tavistock when their vehicle sustained a flat tyre on the M27. As Chiedozie stepped out to inspect the issue, he was hit by another vehicle and rushed to the hospital with severe injuries.
Bashley FC released an official statement expressing their devastation over the incident:
“Everyone connected with Bashley Football Club is devastated by the news that our player Jordan Chiedozie is currently in hospital with what is described as ‘life-changing and potentially life-threatening’ injuries, after a serious car crash.
“Jordan was travelling back from Saturday’s Southern League match at Tavistock with club physio Reighan Taylor when they pulled over onto the hard shoulder of the M27 near Southampton to investigate a flat tyre.
“They were both outside the vehicle when it was hit heavily from behind by another car. The driver of that vehicle has been arrested for alleged ‘drink-driving and causing serious injury by dangerous driving’.
“Jordan was taken to Southampton Hospital suffering multiple broken bones and other physical injuries. At this time, he remains in a controlled coma.
“Reighan was not hurt physically but has suffered severe trauma. She was able to use her skills to provide immediate first aid to Jordan at the scene.
“The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the club are with Jordan and his family, and of course with Reighan, at what is a difficult time for all connected with Bashley FC.
“In view of the seriousness of the situation, the club has applied to the Southern League to have Tuesday’s scheduled home match against Thatcham Town postponed. The Southern League has respectfully agreed to the request.”
Chiedozie, who began his football journey at Bournemouth’s academy in 2007, has played for over 15 clubs throughout his career.
Bashley FC manager David Lewis expressed his sorrow, saying, “Everyone at the club is completely stunned by what happened. Our thoughts at the moment are far more with Jordan and his family, and with Reighan, than they are with football.
“Jordan’s teammates are understandably devastated, and I am certain they would not want to play so soon after this terrible accident. In such circumstances, I would certainly not want to give a team talk.
“We are in close touch with Jordan’s immediate family and will do all we can to support them at this awful time.”
The football community continues to rally around Chiedozie, hoping for his recovery.