Former NI footballer 'very, very lucky' following cardiac arrest scare

Former Northern Ireland footballer Iain Dowie says says he is "very, very lucky" after surviving a "big cardiac arrest" earlier this year.

The 59-year-old - who won 59 caps for his country - had a major heart attack when taking part in a spin class.

Dowie - who played for clubs including Southampton and West Ham United, and also managed in the Premier League - praised the medical staff who saved his life.

Read more: Irish League RECAP as Larne crowned champions and Euro play-off spot decided

Speaking to the BBC during Larne's title-winning victory over Coleraine on Saturday, Dowie said: "I went to a spin class and don't really remember too much. I had a big cardiac arrest.

"Fortunately lots of people looked after me at the time. They did some great things at the gym and then I was taken to hospital where I stayed for a good few days. But I have been brilliant since and my heart is in good shape.

"I now have a wee ICG machine fitted which will keep me going for maybe another 20 years, I hope."

Dowie currently works as Football Relationships director at Larne, who clinched their second successive Premiership title on Saturday.

They were 3-0 up at half-time on what turned into an emphatic final day at Inver Park.

Dowie added at half-time: "It was more terrifying for my wife watching it unfold. My view is , I am one of those lads who looks forward.

"And I am very, very lucky. It was the right place to have it, and maybe it just wasn't my time.

"I am feeling very good now, and feeling even better after that first half."

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