Chelsea star pays tribute to Fabrice Muamba

Chelsea star Gary Cahill has paid tribute to Fabrice Muamba after his former Bolton team-mate was forced to retire.

The former Trotters midfielder suffered cardiac arrest on the pitch against Tottenham in March and announced his retirement this week.

“I heard it and it is sad. To retire at such a young age is devastating but the real fact of the matter is his health and I think people would have been surprised if he did come back and play again,” he said.

“I’m sure his family, which is the most important thing, know he is up on his feet and out and about. That is the main thing. It is disappointing but I’m sure he will move forward and move onto other things.

“It puts it in perspective. You can never take anything for granted. It’s an old cliche but it is true.

“One minute he is playing on a three or four-year deal in the Premier League and the next thing he is retiring at such a young age.

“You enjoy what you do and playing football is where you want to be at. You have to relish nights when you win.”