Football
ESPN staff 7y

Hull midfielder Ryan Mason can hope to play again - neuroscience expert

Ryan Mason has every chance of making a full recovery after suffering a fractured skull during Hull City's 2-0 defeat at Chelsea on Sunday, a neuroscience expert has said.

The Guardian quoted Dr Michael Grey, a reader in rehabilitation neuroscience at the University of East Anglia, as saying Mason "would be expected to follow a gradual return to play protocol and the first step is complete rest, which means no stimulation."

He added: "After complete rest comes gentle exercise, all with continuous monitoring to check there are no symptoms, no fatigue or dizziness or headaches. Once recovery's complete, heading balls should be fine."

The report said Mason could be back in the Hull team for the start of next season. On Monday, the club said Mason had been speaking to officials who visited him in hospital after his surgery.

Medics rushed the 25-year-old from Stamford Bridge to St Mary's Hospital in Paddington for emergency treatment after Chelsea defender Gary Cahill had accidentally butted him in the side of the head during an aerial challenge in the 13th minute.

Mason has been backed by former Barnsley forward Iain Hume, who was able to resume his playing career after suffering a skull fracture in a clash with Sheffield United defender Chris Morgan in 2008.

Hume -- who was initially told he had suffered severe concussion before the extent of his injury was discovered -- told The Times: "Football is all I have ever known, so there was never any doubt in my mind that I was going to play again.

"Whether Ryan's injury is the same or worse than mine he has to stay positive. He will have had quick and effective treatment, so hopefully he can return to football."

A Hull statement said Mason and his family "have been extremely touched by the overwhelming support they have received."

It added: "They would very much like to thank all of those who have posted such positive comments both on social media and in the press over the last 24 hours."

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