An update has emerged after former Turkey international Serhat Akin was shot in Istanbul after being a pundit on a Europa League game.
Akin, 43, had been working after Fenerbahce’s clash against Belgian side Union Stade-Gilloise, which Jose Mourinho’s side won 2-1.
Akin scored three goals in 16 caps for Turkey and his playing career spanned spells with Fenerbahce, Anderlecht, Karlsruher and a host of other clubs in his native country and Germany.
Akin had been working at a studio in Istanbul for broadcaster Sports Digitale, but was shot outside by a masked figure, before being escorted away from the area on a motorcycle after crossing the street.
Akin was shot in his right foot and he posted a picture of his injury to an Instagram story, with blood clearly showing on both the ground and near his ankle.
He wrote: “They shot my foot, our last word is Fenerbahce.”
Probes have been launched into the shooting by Turkish police and Akin was subsequently taken to hospital where he was due to undergo surgery.
Former Stoke City and Middlesbrough star Tuncay Sanli, who is a friend of Akin, confirmed the former Turkey international will have an operation but that is in a good condition despite the shooting.
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As per The Sun, Tuncay said: “He is currently very well, his morale is low. There is not much to say. He will undergo surgery tomorrow.
“I was with my brother because of the situation. He is my brother, we have experienced great things together. We have also experienced sadness.
“I came to him as soon as I heard. There is nothing very serious about his condition. He will most likely undergo surgery tomorrow.
“I am both sad and angry. Right now, his condition is very good. He is not in a good mood and his morale is low. I hope he regains his health as soon as possible.”
Akin’s former club Fenerbahce condemned the attack on their old player.
A statement read: “We condemn the armed attack on our former football player Serhat Akin.
“We wish him a speedy recovery. We expect the perpetrators to be held accountable before justice as soon as possible.”
Their stance was echoed by the Turkish Football Federation as a speedy recovery was wished to Akin.
The statement read: “We have learned with regret that former national team player Serhat Akin was injured in his foot as a result of an armed attack.
“We strongly condemn the heinous attack and wish Serhat Akin a speedy recovery.”