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Daily Record
Daily Record
Sport
Euan Robertson

Brian Rice opens up over heart scare after Hibs' Scott Allan revealed his condition

Hamilton Accies manager Brian Rice revealed that he suffered a serious heart scare while coaching at Airdrieonians back in 2002.

Earlier today, Hibernian midfielder Scott Allan announced that he had been diagnosed with a heart condition that could have potentially forced him to retire at just 29 years old.

(SNS Group)

Accies boss Rice expressed his delight at Allan's return to football before admitting he was hospitalised with a heart problem while coaching for Airdrie.

He said: "I've got personal experience, I took not well at a game many, many years ago and I had a heart problem. I had to get a stent put in when I worked at Airdrieonians.

"It was a match at St Mirren and I didn't feel well and the next thing I knew, I woke up in hospital in Paisley.

"It came as a shock to my system. It was in 2002/03 so it was nearly 20 years ago - I'm just grateful that's all it was.

Hamilton travel to Easter road tomorrow for a crucial clash against a Hibernian side that could feature Allan in the squad.

(SNS Group)

The former Celtic midfielder revealed that he 'really feared' that he'd never play again after being diagnosed with a serious condition called Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy.

The talented midfielder has missed the majority of Hibs' season due to the issue but Rice is overjoyed that Allan is on the mend.

He said: "I'm absolutely delighted that Scott Allan is back involved in the Hibs squad. He's had a horrendous time the lead so I'm absolutely delighted for him that he seems to be getting his career back on track.

"I read his story this morning and it's absolutely fantastic. The boy is a fantastic talent, a lovely lad and to have the troubles at his young age with a young family.

"{His return}gives everyone a boost. It will give Hibs a boost and me personally, I'm delighted to see him back."

(SNS Group)

The Hamilton manager praised the football authorities for their support and their concern for players' welfare.

He added: "They all get heart screening through the SFA. Football does everything it can I believe to make sure everyone is fit and healthy.

"We've come so far in that side, looking at players health issues and making sure everyone is okay. The union is there to help everybody and the SFA, or whoever it is, at Hampden.

"We've all this screening and health checks - everybody is well looked after."

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