Velez midfielder Bella collapses

Velez Sarsfield’s Ivan Bella was taken to hospital on Friday night after collapsing on the field during an Argentine Primera Division clash.

As the players headed for the changing rooms following Newell’s Old Boys’ 3-1 victory, the 23-year-old was seen lying on the ground experiencing what appeared to be convulsions.

Medical staff rushed to his aid before an ambulance arrived on the scene to take him to San Juan de Dios hospital in the Ramos Mejia area of Buenos Aires.

“The Newell’s doctor who was first (to attend to Bella) said he thinks it was an epileptic fit,” said Velez vice-president Julio Baldomar.

Bella has represented Argentina at Under-20 level and also earned a call-up to Argentina coach Alejandro Sabella’s ‘local’ side for domestic-based players only.

His performances for Velez have attracted admirers from Europe with Newcastle United among a number of clubs reported to have taken an interest.