A FUNDRAISING appeal has been launched on behalf of former Gala Fairydean Rovers player Scott Taylor Mackenzie who suffered serious injuries following a choking accident at his home last week.

The 26-year-old underwent a lifesaving 10-hour operation last weekend and was put into an induced coma to recover.

He is now slowly coming out of his sedation and remains in intensive care.

A Gofundme appeal launched yesterday has already passed the £11,000 mark and includes a £500 donation from Australian international footballer Jason Cummings who was a boyhood pal.

 h2>

Best friend professional boxer Lee McGregor said: “It’s going to be a long road for Scott to recover but we are so grateful he is still here with us because things could have been different.

“Scott is a joined and was about to start with a new company will not be able to get back to work for quite a while due to the severity of what has happened to him.

“So any help to help his family cover bills and to live while he recovers to the fullest would be a heavy weight taken from their shoulders.”

Gala Fairydean Rovers chairman Ryan Cass said: “I’ve kept in touch with Scott who was such a big character during his time at the club.

"Everyone at Gala Fairydean Rovers sends our best wishes to him and we are all praying for his swift recovery.”

Former Vale of Leithen boss Joe Murray who was a team mate of Scott at Lothian Thistle Hutchison Vale said: “Scott is an absolute winner and a fighter who always shows a great determination and hopefully he will be back playing soon.

"I’d like to send him my best wishes for a quick recovery.”

Donate here: