According to The Sun, a football player who was declared dead hours ago has woken up in the morgue and is currently fighting for his life.

Reports say that Katsina United fans were greatly alarmed during a pre-season friendly match in Nigeria when Chinedu Ozor suddenly collapsed while playing against Niger Tornadoes.

Doctors declared the defender dead after examination, but rescuers were later shocked to find Ozor moving his hands in the morgue.

The Nigerian player was then rushed to the intensive care unit of Katsina General Hospital, where he is currently receiving oxygen as doctors work to revive and stabilize his condition.

Heartland FC, one of Ozor's former clubs, subsequently issued a statement, which also greatly shocked fans.

The statement read: "Reliable sources say that Chinedu Ozor has been transferred to a hospital after showing signs of activity in the morgue."

The statement also said: "He is currently on oxygen, and rescuers are trying to revive him."

This unexpected update came after his club initially announced Ozor's death on social media.

The club wrote at the time: "It is with deep sadness that we announce the unfortunate passing of our new player, Chinedu Ozor, who collapsed during today's friendly match against Niger Tornadoes. We extend our condolences to his family and friends, and may he rest in peace."

Nasir Gide, Katsina United's Head of Communications, added: "When we rushed him to a nearby hospital, doctors confirmed he was dead. We then got a report from the police and took him back to Katsina General Hospital, where they also said he had passed away."

The Nigeria Professional Football League and Kano Pillars also expressed their condolences after the news of the player's death spread.

Rivers United General Manager Okey Kpalukwu also commented as shock spread through Nigerian football circles.

He said: "We extend our sincerest condolences to his family, friends, and the management, players, staff, and fans of Katsina United."

He also added: "Our hearts and prayers are with the entire Nigerian football community during this difficult time."

Ozor had only completed his move to Katsina United earlier this month, as pre-season preparations were underway.

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