A young footballer is in an induced coma after collapsing during a pre-season friendly in Dartford just days before his 16th birthday.

Ali Reith, who turned 16 today, was playing in the Welling United U16s team against Dartford at Princes park on Sunday (August 30) when he collapsed.

He was airlifted to King's College Hospital at around 3pm. 

The teen football fan is said to be recovering in hospital.

A statement from Welling United reads: "Everyone at the club would like to extend our best wishes and thoughts to Welling United youth player Ali Reith and his family after yesterday’s incident at Dartford Football Club.

"Ali collapsed whilst playing in a pre-season friendly for Welling United U16’s against Dartford at Princes Park.

"Ali is currently in an induced coma and is recovering in hospital."

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Dartford FC ground Princes Park.

Welling United thanked Tony Burman and Phil Murray, from Dartford FC, as well as Dave Shaw and John Cotton from their own management team, for their quick responses to the "traumatic event".

A statement from Dartford FC said: "We are pleased to say that updates from Ali's family seem positive and that he is progressing well, albeit slowly.

"It is his 16th birthday today and we would like you to join everybody at the Club, in wishing Ali a very happy birthday.

"Further updates will come as we hear news of his continued recovery."

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Welling United football ground. (c.) Keith Gillard.

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Messages of support from fellow football fans have been posted on social media.