Former Fulham midfielder Abdeslam Ouaddou has been admitted to hospital following a severe road accident near Gauteng, South Africa.

Ouaddou, 46, was hit by a pick-up truck on Sunday evening while trying to help victims of an earlier car crash on the R21 highway.

The retired footballer, who now serves as head coach of Orlando Pirates in South Africa, was returning from a match with five members of his staff when the accident happened. All six were rushed to hospital for treatment.

A statement from Orlando Pirates confirmed: “Head Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou and five staff members were involved in a road traffic accident on Sunday night.”

The club explained that the incident occurred on the R21 highway as the team returned from Gqeberha after defeating Chippa United 3–0.

“Coach Ouaddou and staff exited the bus to assist victims of a vehicle collision,” the statement said.

Tragically, a Nissan NP200 then collided with the stopped vehicles, hitting Ouaddou and the staff and causing serious injuries.

“All affected individuals were immediately taken to hospital and are receiving medical care. The club is in constant contact with medical staff and will provide updates on their recovery,” the statement added.

Orlando Pirates emphasised that their main concern is the wellbeing of Ouaddou and his staff, and that support is being provided to them and their families during this difficult time.

Ouaddou became Orlando Pirates head coach in June, following a successful spell at Marumo Gallants.

He is also remembered in England for his four-year stint at Fulham, which began in 2001 when he moved from Nancy for £2 million.