Tottenham slammed by charity after Hugo Lloris injury incident

A national charity has blasted Tottenham for their ‘irresponsible’ decision to allow Hugo Lloris to play on after suffering a blow to the head in their goalless draw against Everton.

The French goalkeeper had taken a knee to the head in a accidental collision with Toffees striker Romelu Lukaku, but elected to play on despite being knocked unconscious.

Spurs physiotherapists allowed Lloris to see out the remainder of the game and Andre Villas-Boas defended their decision in the aftermath of the game, but brain injury charity Headway slammed their actions.

“When a player – or any individual – suffers a blow to the head that is severe enough for them to lose consciousness, it is vital they urgently seek appropriate medical attention,” Headway spokesman Luke Griggs said.

“A physio or doctor treating a player on the pitch simply cannot accurately gauge the severity of the damage caused to the player’s brain in such a setting as there may be delayed presentation of symptoms.

“By continuing to play, the player may have caused greater damage to his brain. He should have been removed from the game immediately and taken to hospital for thorough tests and observation.”

Villas-Boas said after the game: “He doesn’t remember it so he lost consciousness. It was a big knock but he looked composed and ready to continue.”

“Hugo seemed assertive and determined to continue and showed great character and personality. We decided to keep him on based on that.

“The call always belongs to me. Brad was ready to come in but the person Hugo is, there were enough signs for him to continue.”

Hugo Lloris has been an ever-present between the sticks for Spurs this season with an average of 4.60 saves per goal and 2.30 saves per match.