West Ham goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski alert and conscious after being taken off on a stretcher

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SOUTHAMPTON, England (AP) — West Ham's goalkeeper, Lukasz Fabianski, is now “responsive” and aware after being carried off the field on a stretcher during the team’s 1-0 victory against Southampton in the Premier League on Thursday, according to manager Julen Lopetegui.

The match was paused for about eight minutes while Fabianski received medical attention on the pitch at St. Mary's Stadium. The 39-year-old Polish keeper sustained an injury during a collision from a corner kick and was substituted by Alphonse Areola in the 36th minute.

Southampton goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale sprinted the entire length of the pitch to check on Fabianski during a distressing moment. Fabianski received a warm round of applause as he was escorted off the field wearing an oxygen mask, but fortunately, he did not require hospitalization.

"He took a significant blow to the head and neck, which left him a bit disoriented. The good news, however, is that he is speaking, aware, and alert," said Lopetegui.

"I spoke with him, and the doctors say he's doing much better now. I'm feeling hopeful about his progress. He seems to have mostly regained his senses. I don’t feel scared anymore. We were worried for a while, but now that he’s improving, it’s a relief."

West Ham, who had defender Max Kilman leave the game in the first half, found the net thanks to Jarrod Bowen in the 59th minute.