Khalilou Fadiga relives traumatic heart nightmare

By Michael Penkman, Reporter | 20 March 2012

Former Bolton Wanderers midfielder Khalilou Fadiga says that Fabrice Muamba's cardiac arrest has brought back bad memories of his own traumatic experience.

Former Bolton Wanderers midfielder Khalilou Fadiga has revealed that Fabrice Muamba's cardiac arrest has brought back bad memories of his own traumatic experience.

The 37-year-old also suffered from heart problems while playing for the Trotters against Tottenham Hotspur in a Carling Cup clash in 2004.

Fadiga, who suffered cardiac arrhythmia, known commonly as an irregular heartbeat, said that he was thankful that he was in England and was treated by professionals.

"At the same time that I'm sad, I'm glad because it was in England and people are very, very professional when something like this happens," the former Senegal international told The Sun. "That is why I am always thankful for Bolton and England.

"I remember it very well - you cannot forget something like that. I was in the warm-up with El Hadji Diouf, Fernando Hierro, Ivan Campo and all the guys, we were laughing. Then I just felt hit from toes to head. I was in the dressing room when I woke up and I saw the doctor next to me.

"Bruno N'Gotty wasn't playing and he was there too. [Bolton Medic] Richard Freeman tried to explain to me but I wasn't really conscious."

Fadiga retired from football last year.