IT was a night of glitz and glamour at Bolton Wanderers’ Whites Hotel as famous faces showed up to meet fans.

Former midfielder Fabrice Muamba was joined by club legend Sam Allardyce at a special dinner where the two told stories of Wanderers through the years and answered questions about their careers.

The event was billed as an ‘Inspiring Dinner’ and gave fans the chance to hear the story behind the shocking incident which nearly killed Muamba.

During an infamous FA Cup game against Tottenham in March 2012 he collapsed on the pitch and had to be treated by medical staff.

It was later revealed that he'd had a heart attack and his heart had stopped for 78 minutes. He was taken to the London Chest Hospital where staff finally managed to stabilise him. 

A cheerful Muamba, who now works as a coach and a representative of the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA), said he would be giving fans the inside scoop on what happened to him during the Tottenham game.

He added: “This is a chance to share my story with Bolton fans, the stuff that went on behind the scenes before and after the accident.

“For the fans it’s a great chance to hear the two sides of my story so this is brilliant.”
Former Wanderers manager Big Sam told The Bolton News he was delighted to be speaking to Muamba.

He said: “Fabrice’s story is a miracle to hear. I’m sure there’s lots of people he thanked on that day at Tottenham who saved his life. He’s a super guy and it’s great to see him here contributing and doing what he can for the club.”

Alongside the sporting stars was Coronation Street and The X Factor: Celebrity star Victoria Ekanoye, who performed for the hundreds of people in attendance.

The Bolton News:

Victoria Ekanoye

As well as legends of the past, fans were joined by current managerial duo Keith Hill and David Flitcroft who chatted and told stories of their own.

The Bolton News:

Organiser Lisa Forshaw with Fabrice Muamba and Sam Allardyce 

Hill was also pleased to be meeting fans and was enjoying being involved in the Whites’ work off the pitch. 

He said: “This club is brilliant, it’s great to be able to relax, socialise with the fans and share the history of the club with Sam, Fabrice and all the supporters.”