A DARLINGTON footballer has been given the all-clear after being taken to hospital last night with a head injury.

Darlington defender Nicky Hunt was injured in the match against Boston United last night, which had to be abandoned in the 87th minute.

The club has confirmed this morning that he has had a scan and has been given the all-clear.

He was given a scan on his head and neck at North Tees Hospital early this morning. 

He was released at about 5am and was sent home to rest.

A statement by Darlington FC today said: "We are pleased to inform everyone that following a scan on his head and neck at North Tees Hospital early this morning, Nicky has been given the all-clear.

He was released from hospital at around 5am, and he returned home to rest with his family.

"Once again, we would like to thank the physios from both Darlington and Boston who gave Nicky so much care and attention on the field, their professionalism prevented the situation from getting even worse, and also to the medical staff for their attention.

"We would also like to thank everyone from across the football spectrum for sending their best wishes to Nicky."

Hunt has had an illustrious career, including debuting for Bolton Wanderers in 2003. He became a regular starter in the Premier League, also turning out for Sam Allardyce’s side in Europe. He played 161 games for the Whites before signing for Bristol City in 2010.

He later played for the likes of Preston, Rotherham, Accrington, Mansfield and Crewe before signing with Darlington last summer.