FA 'not involved' in Patrick van Aanholt's withdrawal following heart scan

The Football Association has denied involvement in Patrick van Aanholt's late withdrawal from the Sunderland team on Sunday following results of a heart scan.

Manager David Moyes told reporters that the FA panel contacted the club, advising them that Van Aanholt required further tests, just 30 minutes before kickoff.

However, the English governing body has released a statement claiming that it did not play any role in the situation.

"This cardiac screen was not conducted as part of the FA's cardiac screening programme, therefore, the FA had no involvement in the player's referral, the screening process or the communication of the results with the club," it said in the statement.

"On occasion, clubs may seek independent advice on a player's cardiac health from an expert cardiologist who sits on The FA Consensus Panel. They are hugely respected and vastly experienced specialists who place the patient at the very centre of their care and their only concern will be in regard to the wellbeing of that individual."

The match ended in a 1-0 defeat to Spurs.