Premier League ace who recently played vs Newcastle United announces heartbreaking retirement

Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Enock Mwepu has been forced to retire following the diagnosis of a hereditary heart condition.

The 24-year-old was taken ill whilst on a flight to join up with Zambia during the recent international break and spent a period in hospital.

He returned to England to undergo further cardiac tests, where Mwepu was advised his only option was to stop playing football for his own safety.

The condition can be exacerbated by playing sport - placing Mwepu at a high risk of suffering a potentially fatal cardiac event.

Adam Brett, Head of Medicine and Performance at Brighton, explained: “It is a terrible blow for Enock, but he has to put his health and his family first and this is the right choice, however difficult it is to quit the game he loves.

“Of course, given this is Enock’s career and a decision which can’t be taken lightly we have taken our time to be as thorough as possible, completed advanced cardiac investigations and collaborated with clinical experts to gain the best second opinions for Enock.

“We will be helping him make sure the condition is managed with the appropriate treatment for him to otherwise live a long and healthy life.’”

Mwepu featured in the Seagulls’ opening six Premier League games - including the 1-1 draw with Newcastle United at the Amex Stadium in August.

A heartbreaking statement by Mwepu read: “A boy from a small Zambian township called Chambishi has some news to share.

“He stood strong to follow his dream of playing football at the highest level, and by the grace of God he lived his dream by reaching the Premier League.

“Some dreams, however, come to an end so it is with sadness that I announce the need to hang up my boots because of the medical advice I have received. This is, however, not the end of my involvement with football. I plan to stay involved in some capacity.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone that supported me in my football journey, including my wife and family, my agent 12MAN, the Zambian FA, all my previous clubs, team-mates and coaches and especially everyone at Brighton & Hove Albion.”