Shaka Hislop collapses on TV in USA: what happened to former Newcastle goalkeeper

Former Newcastle United and West Ham goalkeeper Shaka Hislop has spoken for the first time since he collapsed live on air.

The 54-year-old was covering a pre-season friendly between Real Madrid and AC Milan on Sunday 23 July when he stumbled and fell to the ground next to fellow presenter Dan Thomas.

Thomas immediately called for assistance and the channel cut to a commercial break.

But what is the latest on Shaka Hislop’s condition and what contributed to his collapse?

Here is everything you need to know

What has Shaka Hislop said?

Shaka Hislop has confirmed that he is recovering from the incident and used the opportunity to thank his family and colleagues.

Hislop shared a video on Instagram and said: “Well, that was awkward. What a 24 hours this has been. Listen, every so often life gives you a moment to pause and this was mine.

He added: “I have so much to be thankful for. My wife, kids, family, loved ones, friends and people I’ve shared a space with over the years and have lost touch with for whatever reason and have reached out, either directly or indirectly, thank you.”

What happened to Shaka Hislop?

Shaka Hislop collapsed live on air during a pre-match interview in the build up to a game between Real Madrid and AC Milan.

The former Trinidad and Tobago goalkeeper has worked as a commentator for ESPN’s soccer coverage since his retirement from football in 2007.

Whilst speaking to his broadcasting partner Dan Thomas, Hislop staggered backwards and forwards before collapsing to the ground. This caused immediate concern amongst the crew and coverage was instantly cut as people rushed to his aid.

In an update at half-time, Thomas confirmed that Hislop was in a stable condition.

Thomas said: “That (the first half) was of course very much secondary to what happened ahead of the game. Obviously my mate Shaka is not here, but as it stands, it’s good news.”

Thomas added: “He’s conscious, he’s talking, I think he’s a little bit embarrassed about it all. He apologised profusely, not a man who likes people to make a fuss of him.”

What caused Shaka Hislop to collapse?

Temperatures in California were reported to be around 30C, but it is unclear if the heat was a factor in Shaka Hislop’s collapse.

Hislop explained that he is currently seeking out the best medical opinion to explain what happened.

He said: “My response now has to be to seek out the best medical opinion that I can and listen to what my doctors have to say. In closing, I’d like to thank Dan and the ESPN family, the camera operators, the medical staff at the Rose Bowl - all who responded in the way they did and afforded me the care that I got. Thank you.”

How fans reacted to the incident

Football fans quickly took to social media to wish Shaka Hislop well.

One fan tweeted: “That Shaka Hislop video is really really scary, I hope he’s okay and makes a full and swift recovery. We are all with you Shaka.”

Former Newcastle sponsor Fun88 tweeted: “Sending our sincere best to Shaka Hislop who fainted live-on-air last night. Truly one of football’s good guys.”

Labour politician Chi Onwurah added: “Sending best wishes for a speedy and full recovery to #nufc and anti-racist legend Shaka Hislop following his collapse last night. I am pleased to hear that he is now conscious and responding.”

Shaka Hislop enjoyed a successful career as a goalkeeper from 1992 to 2007, which mainly saw him play in England’s top two divisions.

He was a part of Kevin Keegan’s Entertainers team from 1995 to 1998, which competed for the Premier League title and he also played for Reading, West Ham and Portsmouth.