Laryea Kingston pays tribute to O'Donnell

Scotland-based midfielder Laryea Kingston has paid tribute to Motherwell's Phil O'Donnell, 35, who collapsed and died during their match with Dundee United on Saturday.

Kingston, who plays for Scottish side Hearts, has played against O'Donnell in several matches since his move from Russia last year.

"I was in total shock when the chief executive of Hearts called me to inform me of the sad news," Kingston told Ghanasoccernet.

"I played in many matches against Phil and on all occasions he behaved like a true professional ? a good example for others to follow.

"He is a big loss to Scottish football because I am confident he would have helped in the grooming of the next generation of footballers for Scotland.

"My sympathy and condolences go to his family and friends," added Kingston who is recovering from an ankle injury in his home country

O'Donnell was thought to have suffered some form of seizure and leaves behind a wife and four young children.
He collapsed towards the end of Saturday's match at Fir Park which Motherwell went on to win 5-3.

The club later confirmed that O'Donnell died at 1718 GMT.

O'Donnell had two spells at Motherwell, the first successfully earning him a big-money move to Celtic and then Sheffield Wednesday.

But injuries meant he was released from the Yorkshire club and he was enjoying his second spell at Motherwell as club captain.