Duffy leaves intensive care

The 18-year-old Galliagh lad lacerated his liver when he collided with a goalkeeper during Friday's training match in Malahide. It emerged today that after life saving surgery, he has left intensive care as he continues his recovery after life-saving surgery.

The 18-year-old lost two-thirds of his blood supply.

Team surgeon John O'Byrne and team doctor Alan Byrne treated Duffy on the field before he had surgery, carried out by a specialist team, at a Dublin hospital.

O'Byrne described it as "a freak injury that in another 100 years of medicine we may never see again", adding yesterday (Saturday) that the teenage central defender's life was no longer in danger.

The Republic's management paid tribute to the surgeons who successfully carried out the life-saving surgery.

Coach Giovanni Trapattoni, thanked Prof Gerry McEntee and his specialised crash team as well as the national side's medical staff.

"I would like to thank Dr. Alan Byrne and Prof. John O'Byrne for their quick reaction to Shane's serious injury," he said. "As time was critical, had they not acted as they did, Shane's life could have been in more danger than it already was.

"On behalf of the FAI, I would also like to praise Prof. Gerry McEntee for conducting the emergency operation and ensuring that Shane was given the best possible attention.""Shane is very lucky and we wish him a speedy recovery."

Everton fans have been posting good luck messages on the official fans' forum at evertonfc.com

One post said: "Update from a member of Shane's family from another forum...

"'quick update on shane after a realy bad nite for everyone here..... shane lost over 3 pints of blood after the blow he recieved, he is now out of intensive care and with the help of god will make a good recovery!!! trapatoni and moyes where there to make sure he got the best people to do the work needed!! thank to the matter hospital(dublin) for there great work to save shanes life!!'

"Very frightening I'm sure...all the best to him."

Another said: "Was just talking about how he's one for the future for us yesterday in this forum. Shocking to think he may not have been here today if he hadn't been treated as quickly as he was. Best wishes in your recovery Shane."

Another said: "I wish you a full recovery shane , as an everton fan I would like to express my gratitude to all the medical team who took great care of you & I am sure I speak for all the fans who dont know about the incident yet."

The shocking freak injury has spoiled what had been a fantastic season for the likeable local teenager.

The defender made big strides last season, featuring for Everton in the Europa League after his performances in the Everton Reserves caught the eye of boss David Moyes. His ability and composure belied his years and he got his reward with an extended contract.

When he put pen to paper on his first professional contract with Everton Duffy said he had found the best team to pursue a professional career with.

He said: "I'd been to Manchester United, Arsenal, Bolton, Sunderland and Southampton for trials and while I had been offered scholarship contracts, I opted for Everton as it had felt right when I arrived there.

"It's a dream come true for me and I'm absolutely delighted," he added.

"Football has always been my number one priority. I love playing the game and to be given a chance to play at the highest level has given me a great boost in confidence. It's very hard to get a professional deal these days, especially in the Premiership, but I'm really looking forward to the challenge. But I've no intention of getting carried away, I'll be keeping my feet firmly planted to the ground and I will continue to stay focused and play to the best of my ability."

Like fellow Londonderry man, Darron Gibson, of Manchester United, Duffy has recently made headlines by declaring for the Republic of Ireland rather than Northern Ireland.

Meanwhile, Killybegs man Seamus Coleman yesterday helped Blackpool secure promotion to the Premiership.

The 21-year-old who recently signed a new contract with Everton has been on loan with the Tangerines and put in several man of the match displays.

Coleman, who cost Everton 60,000 when they signed him from Sligo, today played his part in a thrilling 3-2 victory over Blackpool at Wembley.