EFL release update on linesman taken to hospital after medical incident during West Brom clash

English Football League linesman Rob Smith has been released from hospital after being taken off on a stretcher during West Bromwich Albion's clash with Middlesbrough.

Smith was an assistant referee at the Hawthorns as the Baggies lost 1-0 to Michael Carrick's side, but was unable to complete the game as he took ill. The medical incident took place in the first half of the match and saw an eight-minute delay as the official received medical attention having sat down on the pitch.

Medics from both teams attended to Smith before the official was aided onto a stretcher and ultimately replaced by fourth official Jacob Miles for the remainder of the Championship game. Premier League assistant referee Eddie Smart, who was in attendance as a fan, is said to have taken up Miles' role.

Smith was released from Manor Hospital in Walsall after undergoing tests. He is now recovering at home.

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The EFL said: "Assistant referee Rob Smith has been discharged from hospital and is recovering at home after being taken ill during the first half of the West Bromwich Albion and Middlesbrough match on Tuesday. We would like to thank all those involved in Rob's care and wish him well."

Professional Game Match Officials (PGMOL) also expressed their thanks to those involved. They said: "We are pleased to update that assistant referee Rob Smith has been discharged from hospital and is recovering at home.

"Rob underwent tests after being taken ill during the first half of the Sky Bet Championship fixture between West Brom and Middlesbrough on Tuesday evening. We would like to extend our thanks to both clubs, the paramedics at the Hawthorns and the staff at Manor Hospital in Walsall for their care of Rob."

Tuesday's match saw West Brom lose top spot thanks to Hayden Hackney's goal. The 22-year-old midfielder proved to be the difference after 73 minutes following a goalless opening half.

Sunderland returned to first place in the Championship after a victory over Derby County as Jobe Bellingham and Wilson Isidor secured three points, while Burnley also usurped Carlos Corberan's team after Josh Brownhill's penalty earned a narrow win over Wayne Rooney's Plymouth Argyle.

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