Edoardo Bove update as Fiorentina release statement after midfielder collapsed during Inter match

Fiorentina have confirmed that Edoardo Bove is in intensive care after collapsing on the pitch during Sunday night's Serie A clash with Inter Milan.

The 22-year-old went to ground early in the first-half at the Stadio Artemio Franchi and play was immediately halted as paramedics rushed onto the field of play. Distressed Fiorentina and Inter players formed a protective shield around Bove before the midfielder was stretched off to an ambulance near the pitch.

Bove's teammates and rivals were left distraught by the horrifying ordeal, with some players seen in tears. Referee Daniele Doveri then took the teams off the field before the suspended match was eventually abandoned, with the game goalless at the time.

Fiorentina released a statement on Sunday night, saying: "ACF Fiorentina and the Careggi University Hospital have announced that footballer Edoardo Bove, who was treated on the pitch following a loss of consciousness during the Fiorentina v Inter match, is currently under sedation and is hospitalised in intensive care.

"The Viola player arrived at the emergency department in stable haemodynamic conditions and initial cardiological and neurological tests have ruled out acute damage to the central nervous system and the cardio-respiratory system. Bove will be re-evaluated in the next 24 hours."

The Florence outfit also said club president Rocco Commisso was "in constant contact with Florence from the United States to support Edoardo and his family", with Commisso saying: "Forza Edoardo, we're with you. You're a strong boy with a great character. We're reaching out to the boy's family during these moments."

Inter President Giuseppe Marotta said: "From Inter and the entire football world, we want to express how close we