JACK Sampson is praying Fabrice Muamba can make a quick and full recovery after he shocked the football world by collapsing against Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend.

Sampson is currently on loan at Southend United from Bolton Wanderers where he has trained and played alongside Muamba.

And the young striker was therefore shocked to see his Trotters team-mate suffer a cardiac arrest at White Hart Lane.

“My thoughts and prayers are with Fabrice at the moment and everyone hopes he pulls through and makes a full recovery,” said Sampson, 18.

“I was watching the game on television and just couldn’t believe my eyes because Fabrice is someone I’ve known well for a while now.

“I’ve been texting the lads at Bolton and we’re all supporting each other during this time and the players at Southend have been supportive towards me too.

“But it’s really sad and I just hope Fabrice can come through all this.”

Muamba stopped breathing during the FA Cup clash against Tottenham and required lengthy treatment on the pitch before the game was abandoned by referee Howard Webb.

The 23-year-old remains critically ill in intensive care but Sampson hopes there will soon be some good news.

The striker is now ready to return to action himself after missing Saturday’ 3-2 win at Hereford United with a groin strain.

However, he resumed full training yesterday and now hopes to be involved against Aldershot Town at Roots Hall this evening.

“It was frustrating to miss the match at the weekend but the lads got a great result and now we want another one this evening,” said Sampson.

“Hopefully I can play a part in that happening too.”

FULL STORY IN TUESDAY'S ECHO