Ex-Liverpool defender in critical condition

Former Liverpool defender Avi Cohen is in a critical condition after being a motorcycle accident in his native Israel.

The 54-year-old sustained severe head injuries when his motorcycle was hit a car on Monday, with Cohen receiving treatment at the scene of the incident before being taken to a Tel Aviv hospital.

Cohen is the father of Bolton midfielder Tamir Cohen, and was the first Israeli to play professional football in England, making 24 appearances for the Reds. His career also included stints at Scottish Premier League club Rangers and Maccabi Tel Aviv in his homeland.

Liverpool released a statement on their website, extending their ‘best wishes’ to Cohen.

“The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Avi and his family at this difficult time and we wish him a speedy recovery,” the statement read.

Tamir Cohen has reportedly been allowed leave to travel to his father’s bedside.