Former Japan defender Matsuda collapses on pitch

Former Japan defender Naoki Matsuda collapsed on the pitch and was rushed to hospital on Tuesday after collapsing from suspected heat stroke during practice, local media reported.

The 34-year-old, who played for Japan at the 2002 World Cup, went into cardio-respiratory arrest, according to his JFL team Matsumoto Yamaga.

Medics rushed to Matsuda's aid after he collapsed some 35 minutes after training began at 9:30 a.m.

Matsuda has played 40 times for Japan and made 385 appearances for Yokohama F-Marinos, helping them win three J-League titles before moving down to the JFL this year.

Source: Reuters