'Keep fighting, Michael' - Football sends its support to stricken Schumacher

Dec 30, 2013 2:00:00 PM

The Formula One icon is in a critical condition in hospital after a skiing accident, prompting stars from across the globe to wish the German well

Tributes and messages of support have been pouring in from around the footballing world for iconic Formula One driver Michael Schumacher.

The seven-times world champion, who retired from F1 last year for a second time, has been left "fighting for his life" after a skiing accident in the French Alps resort of Meribel on Sunday. The German is currently in an induced coma having undergone surgery for severe head injuries.

Schumacher, 44, holds the all-time record for Formula One race wins with 91 and enjoyed a glittering career, most notably with Italian giants Ferrari. He is also a keen football fan and, as a resident of Switzerland, has played for second-tier side FC Echichens.

A lifelong supporter of FC Koln, Schumacher has also frequently appeared in charity football matches in recent years, and footballing figures from his native Germany, Italy and the world have taken to social media to express their best wishes for a speedy recovery.

AC Milan midfielder Nigel de Jong via Twitter: "Just heard the news about Micheal Schumacher, get well soon! One of the reasons I'm a big fan of Formule [sic] One"

Chelsea winger Andre Schurrle on Twitter: "Get well soon, Michael Schumacher!!!! Gute Besserung, Michael Schumacher!!! #bestrong"

Lukas Podolski of Arsenal: "Bad news from Switzerland: please get well soon, Michael Schumacher. All the best for you, my friend! #getwellsoon #MichaelSchumacher"

Bayern Munich defender Jerome Boateng: "Get well soon, Michael Schumacher!"



Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand: "[thoughts] go out to the #Schumacher family"

Dietmar Hamann, ex-Liverpool midfielder: "Thoughts with Michael Schumacher and his family.Let's hope he pulls through."

Inter's Diego Milito: "Strength to Michael Schumacher, we're all with you!"

Juventus's Claudio Marchisio: "Don't give up Schumi!! #champion#F1#ferrari#world champion"



Arsenal's Per Mertesacker: "All our thoughts to Schumi ! Hope you will recover soon"

Tottenham striker Roberto Soldado: "All support for Michael Schumacher!"

Barcelona starlet Gerard Deulofeu: "All the best Michael Schumacher! You have to get out of this... #KeepfightingSchumacher" -------------------- goal.com