Republic of Ireland midfielder Sammie Szmodics spent Thursday night in hospital as a result of the collision with Czech Republic defender Stephan Chaloupek that left him unconscious.

The incident occurred late in extra time, moments after the 30-year-old Derby County midfielder had come on as a substitute.

“Sammie was unconscious on the ground but we have good doctors and they took care of him on the grass,” said Republic of Ireland head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson after the match.

“He’s back to consciousness. He’s just being tested, checked and monitored and he will hopefully fly back to Ireland on Friday.”

A Football Association of Ireland spokesperson said on Friday morning: “Sammie Szmodics was transferred to hospital yesterday having sustained a head injury during extra time of the play-off against Czechia.

“Following further tests and a period of observation, he has been safely discharged from hospital and will continue his recovery under the care of the Republic of Ireland and Derby County medical teams.”

The Republic of Ireland had led 2-0 but lost on penalties after a late Czech Republic equaliser forced extra time.

Halgrimsson said in his post-match news conference that Szmodics had been brought on specifically for the shootout.

“We had a list prepared. Sammie was one of six names,” he added.