Gregory Mertens's condition 'deteriorates' following 'cardiac arrest'

The condition of Belgian footballer Gregory Mertens has worsened following his collapse on the pitch with a reported cardiac arrest.

The 24-year-old was resuscitated on the field shortly after he collapsed while playing for Lokeren in a Jupiler Pro League match against Genk on Monday.

Mertens is said to be in an induced coma in Ziekenhuis Oost Limburg hospital, and a Lokeren spokesman has revealed that the footballer's condition has not improved.

The club spokesman told reporters: "His situation has deteriorated. We are waiting for the worst news to come."

Numerous Belgium players, including Everton's Romelu Lukaku, have sent well-wishes to Mertens.