Sheffield Eagles player Quentin Laulu-Togaga'e suffers heart attack after training

Quentin Laulu-Togaga'e has represented Samoa at international level

A rugby player says he is "grateful to still be here" after suffering a heart attack following a training session.

Sheffield Eagles full-back Quentin Laulu-Togaga'e said the incident took place on Thursday.

The 39-year-old, known as QLT, added: "If it wasn't for my wife, who forced me to go to the hospital, the outcome could have been different."

Sheffield Eagles said ex-Samoa international QLT was "now on the road to recovery".

"Q has received excellent medical care and we are pleased to say that doctors were able to successfully sort the problem," they said in a statement.

Posting on social media, the player said: "Life has just thrown me a massive curve ball and as I start my recovery journey, I know it won't be easy.

"There'll be ups and downs, physically and mentally, but with my family and support network by my side, I know I'll keep moving forward."

He signed a new one-year contract with Betfred Championship side Sheffield in October after joining them for a second spell in 2022.

His previous clubs include Halifax, Castleford Tigers and Keighley Cougars.

Sheffield's director of rugby Mark Aston previously described him as a "fine servant to the sport and to this club".