Tottenham’s Vertonghen forced off after clash of heads

LONDON (AP) — Tottenham defender Jan Vertonghen had to be helped off the field shortly after attempting to play on following a clash of heads in the Champions League semifinal against Ajax on Tuesday.

Vertonghen challenged for a header in the Ajax area but slammed his face into the back of teammate Toby Alderweireld’s head, leaving him with blood pouring from a cut on his nose. Vertonghen received treatment on the field and went to change his bloodied white jersey before returning to the game.

He didn’t last long before going across to the sideline, leaning over and struggling to stand. He had to be helped down the tunnel by two medical officials.

Taylor Twellman, whose playing career in the United States ultimately ended because of the lingering impact of a serious concussion, tweeted that Vertonghen should not have been allowed back on the field after the clash of heads.