Lee Smith: Tamworth midfielder loses spleen after collision in non-League game

Smith remains in intensive care but is able to talk with his family

(Getty Images)

A non-League footballer has had to have his spleen removed and is still in intensive care following a clash during a football match on Tuesday night.

Tamworth midfielder Lee Smith had to go through emergency surgery after being injured in a collision during the club's National League North win at Gainsborough Trinity.

The 24-year-old had to be taken to Lincoln County Hospital just five minutes after coming on as a 70th minute substitue.

"Lee has had his operation," a club spokesman told the BBC. "It was successful, but he is still expected to be in intensive care for the next 24 to 48 hours.

"The surgeon was pleased with how the operation went. Lee is in intensive care, but no longer on a ventilator. He is able to talk with his family, who are by his side."