‘I’ll face whatever comes’ — goalkeeper Owono speaks on fatal collision with De Miguel

Jesus Owono, the Equatorial Guinea and FC Andorra goalkeeper, says he will face “whatever comes” after his deadly on-field collision with Tenerife striker Jesus de Miguel, with “utmost respect”. 

In a statement on Wednesday, the 25-year-old added that he is enduring the “hardest days” of his life following De Miguel’s death.

Owono collided with the 30-year-old striker during a Spanish second division match on Monday. The goalkeeper had raced up to the centre of the pitch to clear an aerial ball when he clattered into his opponent.

De Miguel died a day later as a result of injuries suffered from the collision.

“I struggle to find the words, and it is very difficult for me to process anything that has happened,” Owono said.

“I feel immense pain over the loss of Jesus. I think of him, of his family, and of all the people who loved him.

“I know there will be many issues to address, and I will face whatever comes with the utmost respect. But right now, honestly, I cannot think about anything other than Jesus and the pain we are going through. Rest in peace, Jesus.”

There are reports that an investigation into what happened has been opened by the Spanish authorities under judicial supervision.

The goalkeeper, who had to deactivate his social media account due to bombardment of vitriol, might be charged with involuntary manslaughter.(TheCable)