AFC Wimbledon player Sam Hutchinson recently underwent heart surgery due to health complications that arose after a League Two match against Grimsby.
The former Chelsea defender was admitted to the hospital on May 3rd, immediately after scoring the crucial goal that secured AFC Wimbledon`s spot in the play-offs.
Sam Hutchinson experienced chest tightness during AFC Wimbledon`s 1-0 victory over Grimsby.
Former Chelsea star required heart surgery after suffering complications.
The 35-year-old defensive midfielder played the entire 90 minutes of AFC Wimbledon`s 1-0 win against fellow play-off contenders Grimsby.
His close-range goal in the 52nd minute clinched fifth place in the table, setting up a first-round promotion play-off tie against Notts County.
However, Hutchinson was forced to miss the Dons` first leg 1-0 victory at Meadow Lane on Saturday, having undergone heart surgery in London.
The former Cobham academy product mentioned chest issues in his post-match interview at Blundell Park.
He stated: “To be fair, I felt terrible during the game for some reason. I had a really tight chest.”
“I wanted to come off within the first six minutes, but I had to battle on like an old warhorse.”
Hutchinson was taken to hospital during the journey back and received treatment and assessment at Queens Medical Centre and City Hospital in Nottingham.
A club statement confirmed: “Sam subsequently had a successful procedure late last week in London and now has a clear plan for his return to play.”
“Everyone at Wimbledon sends their best wishes to Sam, who is now recovering at home with his family.”
“Hutchinson has been a vital part of the team’s success this season.”
“While he is recovering, Sam continues to influence the squad, and we hope to finish the season strongly for him.”
“The club wishes to express its sincere gratitude for the support and care provided at Queens Medical Centre and City Hospital in Nottingham, as well as Cleveland Hospital in London.”
Hutchinson and Ryan Bertrand during the Chelsea victory parade following their UEFA Champions League and FA Cup wins in May 2012.
After progressing through Chelsea`s youth system, Hutchinson made only five first-team appearances between 2007 and 2014.
During this period, he had loan spells at Nottingham Forest and Vitesse Arnhem before making a permanent move to Sheffield Wednesday.
Hutchinson`s career has faced significant challenges, including being forced to retire in 2010 at the age of just 21 due to severe knee problems during his early years.
However, approximately 18 months later, the former England youth international returned to Stamford Bridge after extensive rehabilitation.
After spending eight years at Wednesday, Hutchinson joined Reading, where he played for the past two seasons.
