NFL star Damar Hamlin makes public statement for the first time since his cardiac arrest

NFL star Damar Hamlin has issued a public statement for the first time since he suffered a cardiac arrest during a game.

The 24-year-old's heart had to be restarted twice after he suddenly collapsed to the ground and went into cardiac arrest during the match against Cincinnati Bengals on 2 January.

Medics rushed onto the field and gave the Buffalo Bills player CPR for about ten minutes, with his teammates surrounding him in a circle, praying he would pull through.

Stunned spectators - including his parents - looked on in silence and disbelief - with Hamlin being rushed to the University of Cincinatti Medical Center - around two miles from the stadium.

After being in a critical condition in hospital for days, Hamlin started to communicate by writing and then slowly started to speak.

And now, the NFL player has taken to social media to express his gratitude from all the fans and the wider NFL sport who have been wishing him well.

On Twitter, he wrote: "Putting love into the world comes back 3xs as much… thankful for everyone who has reached out and prayed.

"This will make me stronger on the road to recovery, keep praying for me!"

Hamlin also took to his Instagram account on Saturday (7 January) to issue a lengthier message.

He wrote: "When you put real love out into the world it comes back to you 3x’s as much.. The Love has been overwhelming,

but I’m thankful for every single person that prayed for me and reached out.

"We brung the world back together behind this. If you know me you know this only gone make me stronger. On a long road keep praying for me!"

On Saturday, doctors at the University of Cincinnati hospital said that Hamlin was able to breathe on his own but remains in a critical condition.

They described Hamlin's neurological function as 'excellent', which came 24 hours after the first major step to recovery when the NFL player was taken off a ventilator and spoke briefly.

The support for Hamlin and the first aiders at the game has been unwavering since he fell ill.

The Steelers NFL team paid tribute to the player by delivering toys, books and teaching supplies to a children's daycare centre which Hamlin supports.

Yesterday, The Las Vegas Raiders and the Kansas City Chiefs also showed support for Hamlin by wearing 'Love for Damar 3' t-shirts during their warm-ups.

Meanwhile, the Bills are planning to pay their tributes on Sunday (8 January) in their game against the New England Patriots.