SFA may introduce heart tests

The Scottish Football Association could implement compulsory heart checks in an effort to reduce the danger of tragedies hitting the game.

Motherwell captain Phil O’Donnell collapsed and died at the age of 35 after suffering heart failure during Motherwell’s match against Dundee United in the Scottish Premier League on Saturday. His funeral takes place tomorrow.

SFA medical officer Professor Stewart Hillis believes footballers at all levels would benefit from health tests, even if there is no guarantee that examinations would save lives.

Professor Hillis told BBC Sport: “Some clubs already undertake a certain amount of screening but this would help regulate it. This is something that would have to be rolled out across the board and not just for elite players.

“I have approached the Scottish Executive about this in the past and I will be looking to speak to them again in the near future.

“If we are telling our youngsters to get out and exercise then let’s make sure we are not putting them at risk.”