Championship match halted as star given oxygen and in tears on pitch | Football | Sport
Stoke City’s Championship clash against Hull City at the MKM Stadium was marred by a significant interruption following Robert Bozenik’s distressing injury. The Potters were ahead 1-0 courtesy of Bozenik’s first-half strike when disaster struck just moments after the restart.
The forward was left writhing in pain on the turf after suffering what appeared to be a shoulder problem following a heavy fall under pressure from an opponent. The 26-year-old needed assistance from Stoke’s medical staff to exit the field, with Sky Sports confirming he was administered oxygen to manage his discomfort.
TV footage captured a distraught Bozenik departing the pitch with his jersey pulled up beyond his elbow to stabilise his arm as he was escorted away.
Stoke acknowledged the incident on their X account, stating: “City are forced into a change following a lengthy delay in play as Boženík is replaced by Gallagher.”
Whilst the full nature and seriousness of Bozenik’s condition remains unknown, the distressing scenes prompted an outpouring of support from supporters across social media.
One supporter posted on X: “Absolutely devastated for Robert Bozenik. He was absolutely sensational today. Fast recovery.”
A second supporter responded: “I found that Really upsetting hope bozenik has a speedy recovery absolutely gutted see that.”
Another fan commented: “Bozenik breaking his little heart is so sad, he’s played so well.”
A fourth supporter added: “Speedy recovery Bozenik. Gutted for him.”
The Slovenian had previously broken the deadlock by converting Sorba Thomas’ delivery across the goalmouth from close range. Bozenik, who signed a three-year contract with Stoke after leaving Portuguese outfit Boavista in the summer, celebrated his first goal for the club with a first-half strike.
Stoke, having failed to secure a win in their last three matches, travelled to East Yorkshire to face Hull. The latter had been on a winning streak, securing four victories from five games, propelling them into the play-offs.
