A YOUNG footballer who was left in a coma after suffering a head injury during a match has regained consciousness.
Kariym Irving, 22, was involved in a clash of heads while playing for Redhill FC reserves against Knaphill on Saturday.
The former John Fisher pupil played on but, later that evening, he collapsed and was taken to St George's Hospital in Tooting, where he was initially placed in an induced coma.
But on Monday night Redhill manager Mike Maher revealed Mr Irving had regained consciousness.
He tweeted: "Great news that @redhillfc player Kariym Irving has regained consciousness. Keep fighting big man. Thanks to everyone for their wishes."
Irving is a keen sportsman who also plays rugby as well as representing Surrey in athletics, specialising in the discus.
The 6ft 8in sportsman used to compete regularly against fellow Croydon Harrier Lawrence Okoye, who went on to reach the 2012 Olympic discus final.
