I could have died - Hume

16th November 2008

Barnsley striker Iain Hume claims he "could have died" when he was elbowed in the head by Sheffield United defender Chris Morgan during last weekend's South Yorkshire derby.

Hume required emergency surgery on a fractured skull and also suffered internal bleeding, and is not expected to play again this season.

The 25-year-old Canada international remains in hospital and has hit out at referee Andy D'Urso, claiming he had sought protection from Morgan's physical approach before the incident in the 31st minute of the 1-1 draw at Oakwell.

"I pleaded with the referee to give me some protection," Hume told the Sunday Times. "I could have died. I feel disappointed that he [Morgan] did not get a red card. I had complained to the referee earlier about being elbowed."

He added: "Last Saturday night the signs were that I was suffering from concussion. It was only through the passage of time that I deteriorated.

"Subsequently a brain scan revealed the injuries were dangerous and I became an emergency. Then my immediate thoughts were about my family and what effect this would have on them. Having thoughts like that is an horrific experience."