FABRICE Muamba is excited to return to Wanderers in an academy coaching role a decade after he was forced to retire.

Earlier this year, The Bolton News reported that Muamba was being lined-up for an emotional return to the Whites.

The 34-year-old made 130 appearances for Bolton but was forced to call time on his playing career after collapsing during an FA Cup quarter-final at Tottenham in 2012.

He needed 15 defibrillator shocks to restart his heart and Dr Jonathan Tobin – one of the medical staff who helped treat him on the pitch – said he was “in effect dead for 78 minutes.”

Muamba has previously worked in a coaching capacity with Rochdale’s Under-16 side and is also underway with his coaching badges.

Speaking during an appearance on The News Desk, he said: “I am excited. Today I received the email, it is official.

“To go back not as a player but as a coach, I am just looking forward to it.

“Hopefully, I can share my experiences with the young lads and give them opportunities to go forward and become some good footballers.”

Muamba admits hanging up his boots was a tough decision but insists it was the right thing to do to protect his health.

He added: “I was down for so long and the impact it had on my health in terms of my heart, my brain and everything else.

“Even though I tried - I went to see the best cardiologist in the world – but it was best to step away from the game.

“I am glad I made that decision because I am still here and able to spend time with my kids and my wife.”

Social, newsletters, subscriptions and getting in touch...

You can follow the Bolton News on social media, by joining us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

We also have dedicated Facebook groups on Crime & Court, Traffic & Travel, Nostalgia and our Camera Club page

If you want to make sure you don't miss the most important news stories every day, sign up to one of our free e-mail newsletters 

Gain unlimited access to the Bolton News website with a premium digital subscription

Or if you want the Bolton News newspaper delivered to your door, get in touch with our home delivery team or call us on 0800 953 0227

Finally, have you got a story for us? If so, contact us at newsdesk@theboltonnews.co.uk or by using our online contribution form