Ex-Manchester City defender Omar Elabdellaoui in hospital following firework accident

Galatasaray defender Omar Elabdellaoui was rushed to hospital with burns to his face following a fireworks accident on New Year's Eve.

The former Manchester City player was partying at his home before the firework exploded in his hand.

The player was rushed to hospital and treated for burns to his face, although the full extent of his injuries are not yet known.

Club vice-president Adurrahim Albayrak, boss Fatih Terim and captain Arda Turan all visited the player in the hospital and he is said to be doing well and being treated by specialist doctors.

Galatasaray released a statement confirming the injuries, saying: "Our player Omar Elabdellaoui was taken to Liv Hospital tonight. Unfortunately, he was injured in an incident at home. In the hospital he received first aid. 

"The seriousness of his injuries will be announced at a later date. We hope that our important player will return healthy and well as soon as possible."

Albayrak also released a statement regarding the player's condition, via Daily Mail, stating that the club would help him recover 100%.

"Omar's eyes will be washed, cared for, and his situation will only be clear afterwards. The club will do its best to heal the player fully."

Elabdellaoui played for Manchester City between 2011 and 2013 but never made a first-team appearance for the club, before making a career for himself at Olympiacos.

He joined Galatasaray last summer on a free transfer after six years with the Greek side and has made four appearances for his new side this season.

The defender is also a full international for Norway and has earned 47 caps for the national team. He was part of the squads that beat Northern Ireland twice in 2020.