Make sure you check any player with a suspected Head Injury, think player safety FIRST.

Once the referee is aware of a head injury the game should be stopped regardless of the location of the ball. If the referee does not see the incident, it may be in a crowded goal area or an off the ball collision, in which case players or management should make sure the referee is made aware so the game can be stopped.

Physical injuries may be obvious, but a recent incident has highlighted the importance of assessing head injuries to make sure there is no concussion. This is not a medical article but suggests basic diagnosis, so with help from doctor Google look out for:

• Headache or pressure in the head
• Nausea or vomiting
• Balance problems or dizziness or double or blurry vision
• Bothered by light or noise
• Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy or groggy
• Confusion, or concentration or memory problems
• Just not feeling right

A player with a head injury should be removed from the pitch assuming it is safe to do so. Although you’ll almost certainly have to counter the “I’m alright” response, or the knowledge that this is an important player, as team captain or management your first responsibility is to the safety of the player, so if there is any doubt take the decision away from them!

If all seems fine, in fact we’ve seen this on televised matches, check the player regularly and at breaks then take them off as it will be clear they are ‘not right’.

This is pretty much what happened the other day in a friendly.

Again, this isn’t a medical article, but a player with a head injury should certainly not drive and be taken to A&E to be checked out.

Before play begins we are encouraging the referee to ask for details of first aiders from both teams. It’s possible that although one club doesn’t have a trained first aider, then don’t be afraid to ask for someone who is. There are plenty of places that offer first aid training including the FA, and probably your place of work. We suggest players, in fact everyone volunteers if training is on offer as it will be valuable to you, your family and the community.

https://thebootroom.thefa.com/

25-Aug-2022: Peter Cejer