Former Premier League star rushed to hospital after 'having fit' and collapsing on pitch minutes ahead of kick-off in League Two clash

The 33-year-old collapsed during the pre-match warm-up, prompting immediate medical attention and a delay to the game's scheduled kickoff. The match, originally set to begin at 7:45 PM, was pushed back by ten minutes to 7:55 PM as medical staff rushed to assist Fleck on the pitch. Chesterfield quickly confirmed that Michael Jacobs would step into the starting lineup in his place.

Following the concerning incident, Chesterfield provided an official update on their social media channels, reassuring fans about Fleck’s condition.

The statement read: "We can confirm that John Fleck has been taken to hospital as a precautionary measure after being taken ill during the pre-match warm-up."

After the game, Chesterfield's manager Danny Webb addressed Fleck's condition, revealing that the midfielder was doing better after receiving medical attention.

"It didn't look very nice," Webb admitted. "(However) As he was being stretchered off, he was smiling. He’s in good hands."

However, Fleck's incident was not the only medical emergency of the night. Just six minutes into the game, play was briefly halted again as someone in the crowd required medical help. Twelve minutes later, another brief stoppage occurred while the individual was assisted away from the stands.

Fleck signed with Chesterfield in September 2023 as a free agent but has seen limited action this season due to a shin injury. Since joining, the five-time Scotland international has managed just four appearances for the club.

Before his move to Chesterfield, Fleck spent eight years at Sheffield United from 2016 to 2024, making 278 appearances. During his time in the Premier League, he played 65 matches, scoring five goals in his debut top-flight campaign. His goals included strikes against Manchester United and Arsenal, as well as a brace in a 2-0 victory over Aston Villa.

Despite the unsettling start to the evening, Chesterfield delivered an impressive performance, securing a 5-2 victory over Doncaster. The win moved them up to ninth place in the League Two standings, while Doncaster, sitting in second, dropped seven points behind league leaders Walsall.