Scunthorpe United have announced that defender Jonathan Joucher has undergone surgery after being injured in the Huntingdon train attack. The 22-year-old full-back is currently “resting at home and is expected to make a full recovery.”
Joshe, one of 11 people injured in the attack, suffered a bicep injury during the 6.25pm flight from Doncaster to London’s King’s Cross. Following the incident, a nine-car train was diverted to Huntingdon just after 7.30pm on Saturday, and Joshe was rushed to Addenbrookes Hospital in Cambridge.
The National League club confirmed on Monday that Joshe was among the injured, saying he had “suffered non-life-threatening injuries.” In addition to playing for Scunthorpe, Joshe also plays for Botsford Town in North Lincolnshire under non-league football’s dual registration rules, and was playing for Botsford Town on the Saturday before the incident, the Mirror reported.
Scunthorpe United have since confirmed that Joshe is recovering well after surgery, and the player himself has spoken out about the ordeal. Scunthorpe said in a statement: “Following surgery on Tuesday for a wound to his arm, the club can confirm that Jonathan is currently resting at home and is expected to make a full recovery.”
“Jonathan sent a message to Tag with this statement: “I want to thank the staff, the players, and everyone who sent their well wishes, as well as the fans and everyone who helped with our fundraisers. I really appreciate everything. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
“We ask that the privacy of Jonathan and his family be respected at this time and the club will be making no further comment.
“We continue to pray for Jonathan and all the victims of Saturday night’s attack.”
Supporter website Iron-Bru.co.uk launched a fundraising campaign earlier this week that raised £3,500, with all donations going to “fund Jonathan’s necessary arrangements in the form of medical treatment, travel costs and loss of income while he recovers from his injuries”.
Organizer Matt Ellis revealed the original target of £2,000 was reached within 24 hours after football fans across the country offered their support.
Scunthorpe manager Andy Butler condemned the attack, saying “something terrible happened”.
Butler added: “This is very close to reality. The club will support him every step of the way in his recovery.”
Anthony Williams, 32, appeared at Peterborough Magistrates Court on Monday charged with 10 counts of attempted murder.
After his arrest, Williams was also charged with possessing a knife and causing actual bodily harm to a police officer. He is also charged with the attempted murder of a 17-year-old boy at London’s DLR station earlier that Saturday.
Mr Williams is due to appear at Cambridge Crown Court on December 1.
