Michael Fatialofa: Worcester Warriors lock in ‘stable’ condition as wife issues update on injury

Worcester Warriors lock Michael Fatialofa spent a second night in hospital following his serious injury in the Premiership match against Saracens at the weekend, with his wife posting a message on Twitter to thank fans for their support.

Fatialofa is in a stable condition in intensive care at St Mary’s Hospital in Paddington, having been carried off the Allianz Park pitch on Saturday in a neck brace after an awkward collision just a minute after coming on as a replacement.

The 27-year-old forward suffered the injury in the 62-5 defeat against the reigning Premiership champions, and the New Zealander received 10 minutes of medical attention on the field of play before being taken by ambulance to St Mary’s.

In a statement that was shared by Worcester, Tatiana Fatialofa confirmed that he is stable and thanked those who have sent messages of support, which she said are helping to keep the former Southland, Auckland and Hurricanes second row in good spirits.

“Haven’t had the chance to reply to a single person yet but @michaelfats is overwhelmed (in the best way) by all the prayers & support – it’s TRULY helping to keep his spirits high, just so thankful honestly for the outpouring of love!” she said.

“We can tangibly feel the presence of God enveloping us in this horrible situation & have such trust that He is good through it all.

“Update wise: Michael is stable in intensive care right now. (Please) keep praying for any improvements. Love, the Fats.”

Worcester also issued a short update on Fatialofa, though it will require further assessment on Monday before any details are released regarding the specifics of the injury.

“Warriors lock Michael Fatialofa will spend a second night in St Mary’s Hospital, Paddington where his condition continues to be assessed,” the club statement read.

“Fatialofa was taken from the pitch on a stretcher after he was injured in a collision shortly after he came on as a replacement in Saturday’s Gallagher Premiership match against Saracens at Allianz Park.

“We will provide a further update on Michael’s condition when we have one.

“On behalf of Michael we would like to thank all those who have passed on messages of support and concern.”

The New Zealand Rugby Union also past on their best wishes to the former Super Rugby player, with the All Blacks Twitter account posting: “Our thoughts are with former @Hurricanesrugby lock Michael Fatialofa who remains in hospital after suffering an injury playing for @WorcsWarriors.”