ATHENS // Michael Olaitan’s agent said the Olympiakos striker, who collapsed during Sunday’s Athens derby against Panathinaikos, is not suffering from any serious medical condition.
The 21-year-old Nigerian was rushed to hospital for tests after briefly losing consciousness midway through the first half of the runaway Super League leader’s 3-0 home defeat.
“I am pleased to inform everyone that after initial tests there is no sign of a serious medical condition,” said Olaitan’s representative Paschalis Tountouris on Monday.
“What appears to have happened is that Michael had a mild case of viral myocarditis. As a precautionary measure he will remain in hospital for the next few days to undergo further tests.”
Myocarditis is an inflammation of the heart muscles often caused by an infection.
“Michael is in a good condition and sends his best wishes to all those who have shown great interest in his health after yesterday’s incident,” Tountouris said.
“He is eager to return as soon as possible to the pitch.”
Olympiakos, who beat Manchester United 2-0 in a Champions League last-16 first leg in Athens last Tuesday, have a 19-point lead at the top of the Super League.
The game was marred by violence as 11 people were arrested during the match after ugly scenes.
“A total of 26 persons were brought in to police headquarters of which 11 were detained for violent acts before, during and after the match at the Karaiskakis Stadium,” a police statement said.
Police said they used “a limited amount of chemicals” to contain the unruly Olympiakos fans.
Panathinaikos coach Giannis Anastasiou was slightly injured when he was struck in the face by a full plastic cup of soda thrown at him in the second half of the match.
In another incident, a flare thrown on the pitch narrowly missed hitting several players.
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