Russian goalkeeper Ivan Zaborovsky, 16, suffered a terrifying incident in training last week.The FC Znamya Truda shot-stopper was put in a coma after being struck by a lightning bolt, but his team's general director is confident that he will play football again.Harrowing footage showed the moment that Zaborovsky was poleaxed by the electrical phenomena with a flash of fire and light consuming him on the moment of impact.
Russian GK struck by lightning
Zaborovsky had been training for the third tier side in the Moscow area of Orekhovo-Zuevo when the horrifying moment happened, leaving his onlooking teammates in shock.
Black smoke was left emanating from the area of impact and the reverberations of the strike propelled the football at his feet fully 10 yards into the penalty area.
According to Russia Today, the youngster received emergency first aid from paramedics who were quick to the scene, before being taken to hospital and placed in the intensive care unit.
Hopeful he will play football again
General director Igor Mayorov confirmed on Monday that he had been in contact with the boy's father, claiming that he was communicating with his eyes and on the road to recovery.
"I have been in contact with his father, [Ivan]'s eyes react, he responds to commands, the dynamics of recovery are positive, he will play again," Mayorov explained.
"We will see how MRI, ECG go. His situation is under the control of the region's Minister of Health.”
Outcry of support
There has been an outcry of support for Zaborovsky across the footballing community and FC Ural Ekaterinburg 'keeper Yaroslav Hodzyur has been amongst those to send his best wishes.
The Russian Premier League player sent a video message to his fellow goalkeeper after learning of the terrible occurance.
"Hey Ivan. I heard your story. I’m glad that you’re getting better. I wish you a speedy recovery. Be healthy and make your loved ones proud. We’re with you,” Hodzyur remarked.
On behalf of everyone at GIVEMESPORT, we send our best wishes to Zaborovsky and his family for a speedy recovery.