Fulham captain Tom Cairney and chairman Shahid Khan have paid tribute to a supporter who died after suffering cardiac arrest during Saturday’s Championship game against Blackpool at Craven Cottage.
The match was delayed for 41 minutes while supporter Paul Parish received emergency treatment before being rushed to hospital.
Fulham later released a statement announcing the supporter’s passing, sending condolences to Mr Parish’s family and friends.
“It is with immense sadness that we inform the fans of the passing of supporter Paul Parish,” the club said.
“Paul suffered cardiac arrest and was treated at Hammersmith Stand during this afternoon’s game before being taken to hospital. He sadly passed away this evening.
“Our condolences and the thoughts of everyone at Fulham Football Club go out to Paul’s family, friends and loved ones.
“The family would like to thank the Fulham and Blackpool fans for the respect and care shown and all the staff at Craven Cottage and the hospital for their help, care and attention. Rest in peace Paul.’
Writing on Twitter, club captain Cairney said: “Just heard the devastating news, rest in peace Paul. You will be part of the Fulham family forever.
‘Thank you to [Hammersmith Stand end] to draw our attention to the situation. Thoughts are with Paul’s family, we are all with you and anything we can do or help please reach out.
Fulham chairman Mr Khan added: “I am devastated by the news of the death of Paul Parish, our supporter who suffered a medical emergency during the game this afternoon.
‘I have been told that Fulham Football Club played a hugely important role in the whole of Paul’s life, with Craven Cottage serving as a second home where he would spend many afternoons as a season ticket holder, supporting his club with his family. and friends.
“We are honored that Paul has chosen Fulham as his club, and I personally wish those close to Paul comfort, support and peace in the days ahead and beyond.
Just heard the devastating news rest in peace Paul Parish, you will be part of the Fulham family forever 🖤 Thanks at the end hammy for bringing the situation to our attention, thoughts are with Paul’s family, we are all with you and anything we can do or help please contact us
— Tom Cairney (@ThomasCairney) January 29, 2022
“To Marek Rodak and all nearby supporters who have called for help, I am grateful. I join everyone at the FFC in saluting the work of the doctors and stewards, whose response to the case was unmatched.
“Finally, the reverence shown by Fulham and Blackpool fans served as a reminder of the good in football and the goodness in all of us.”
Blackpool, meanwhile, said on Twitter: “We are all deeply saddened to learn of Paul’s passing. Our thoughts and condolences are with Paul’s family and everyone connected with Fulham at this time.
The game ended 1-1 as Josh Bowler canceled out Aleksandar Mitrovic’s opener to earn Blackpool a point against Championship leaders Fulham.
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