ACE, 28, IS FORCED TO QUIT AFTER CPR ORDEAL

HORROR Nick Cassidy suffered a cardiac arrest

- By Mark Carruthers

NICK Cassidy has been forced to prematurely end a successful career that brought high points with Gateshead, Consett and Heaton Stannington after suffering a cardiac arrest earlier this month.

The former Newcastle United academy player was preparing for the 2025/26 Northern League season when he collapsed during a run and was rushed to hospital after undergoing CPR at the scene.

After being placed in a coma at a Tyneside hospital, Cassidy has now been fitted with a defibrillator and has been strongly advised by medics to hang up his boots at the tender age of just 28.

Reflecting on a life-changing fortnight, Cassidy admitted the thought of not crossing the white line again hurts - but stressed he also realises how fortunate he has been.