Lyon's Anthony Lopes suffered hearing loss after firecrackers were thrown at him on Saturday
Sunday 4 December 2016 16:37, UK
Lyon goalkeeper Anthony Lopes has suffered post-traumatic hearing loss but no lasting damage after firecrackers were thrown at him during a French league game on Saturday.
The Ligue 1 game at Metz was suspended after 30 minutes and eventually abandoned following the incident.
Metz supporters threw projectiles towards the Portuguese goalkeeper and a first firecracker exploded next to Lopes, who was tended to by teammates and members of Lyon's medical staff, before another firecracker went off close to his feet as he lay on the pitch.
The 26-year-old was subsequently taken to hospital for tests but confirmed via Instagram on Sunday that he had not suffered any long term injuries.
However, he will receive treatment over the next two weeks and may have to sit out Wednesday's crucial Champions League game at home to Sevilla.
Lopes says he has suffered "acoustic trauma" but that the hearing loss "won't have any consequence on [his] future".
Lyon said in a statement: "Anthony Lopes will also need to overcome the psychological trauma provoked by this odious aggression."
Metz, who were leading 1-0 when play was halted, face the risk of heavy sanctions which could include forfeiting the match and Lyon being awarded the win.
