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Death of Phil O'Donnell
30/12/2007
First Minister Alex Salmond has offered his condolences to the family and friends of the Motherwell captain Phil O'Donnell who collapsed on the pitch during a Scottish Premier League match yesterday and later died.
Speaking on BBC Radio Scotland's Sunday Live, Mr Salmond said:
"I saw Phil play on a number of occasions - he was an outstanding young player and a great prospect.
"As the former Scotland manager Craig Brown has said, injury at key times probably prevented him from winning many, many more Scottish caps.
"The circumstances of his death are obviously a huge blow to Scottish football. He was a model professional who was popular among fans and fellow players.
"My deepest sympathy and condolences go to his family and friends at this tragic time."