Premier League star in sickening collision left needing oxygen and NINE MINUTES of treatment

Brighton star Jan Paul van Hecke was left needing oxygen and a neck brace after a painful collision late in his side's game with Brentford. The Dutch defender clashed heads with Seagulls star Yunus Konak.

Van Hecke initially sat up but medical staff soon sat him back down after realising there was a problem. After receiving lengthy treatment which went on for almost nine minutes, the 24-year-old was stretchered off the pitch as fans applauded him. He was replaced by January signing Eiran Cashin.

Brentford's Konak was also withdrawn but was able to exit on his own without the intervention of medical staff. The game eventually ticked over past the 100-minute mark with the pause delaying proceedings for some time.

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Van Hecke, a four-time Dutch international, was signed from NAC Breda in 2020. He has gone on to make 87 appearances for - 35 of which have come this season.

Brighton eventually ended up losing the game 4-2, with the European hopes taking a hit in the process. Bryan Mbeumo scored twice for Brentford, with Yoane Wissa and Christian Norgaard also finding the net. Brighton found the net through Danny Welbeck and Kaoru Mitoma. Brazilian striker Joao Pedro was also sent off just after the hour mark.

Explaining that decision, the said: "The referee’s call of red card to João Pedro was checked and confirmed by VAR – with the actions deemed as violent conduct."

The defeat leaves Brighton sitting tenth in the Premier League table, now just two points one one place ahead of Saturday's opponents Brentford. Fabian Hurzeler's side are next back in action next Saturday as they welcome former boss Graham Potter back to the Amex as they take on ,

Meanwhile, Brentford's next outing pits them against surprise package in early May.

There will be more to follow on this breaking news story and will bring you the very latest updates, pictures and video as soon as possible.

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