Parents share heartwarming update after Perth footballer's assault

The parents of a Perth-based UK footballer fighting for life after a shocking attack have revealed they have managed to secure tickets on a flight to Australia to be with him.

Danny Hodgson, who plays for ECU Joondalup in the National Premier Leagues Western Australia, is in a coma in Royal Perth Hospital after being assaulted on Saturday.

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Hodgson had been celebrating the end of the season with his teammates when he was allegedly struck from behind in an unprovoked attack while walking into a Perth train station.

A 15-year-old boy has since been charged with one count of grievous bodily harm, with police alleging the attack was unprovoked and that the boy fled the scene without rendering assistance.

Hodgson's UK-based parents were initially unable to get to Australia to be by their son's side, sending out messages for help on social media.

And in an uplifting twist, the efforts of the football community have managed to secure Hodgson's parents two tickets on a flight to Perth.

“It’s incredible that in 24 hours we have been able to achieve the impossible,” Hodgson's mother Nicola wrote on Facebook.

“I cannot thank everyone enough who has been involved.

“Our prayers have been answered and we have confirmed flights to Australia.

“Danny still has a long journey ahead of him but the fact that me and (father) Peter will be by his side through it gives us enormous comfort.”

Western Australia Premier Mark McGowan was in favour of the family’s attempts to gain entry into Australia.

“WA Chief Health Officer Dr Andrew Robertson has approved for the Hodgson family to travel to Western Australia above the international flight cap,” a WA Health spokesperson said.

“The family is travelling to see their son, Danny, who is fighting for his life after being assaulted at the Perth City train station early on Sunday morning.

“They will be required to complete 14 days in hotel quarantine.

“When circumstances warrant, visits to an immediate family member in a hospital can be arranged under stringent protocols, including testing negative immediately before the visit and the wearing of full PPE.

“Dr Robertson will consider the circumstances at the time.”

A GoFundMe page created to support Danny and his family has raised around $100,000.

Football community devastated over Danny Hodgson assault

Former Perth Glory coach Kenny Lowe, who now coaches Hodgson at ECU Joondalup, was among those to pay tribute to the striker after learning of his assault.

Lowe choked back tears on Wednesday as he expressed his distress at seeing his star player in a battle for survival.

"He's a top bloke. I've got kids the same age as him," Lowe told Perth radio station 6PR.

"What's happened - I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy. I can't imagine what it's doing to his family being so far away.

"The big focus for us is Danny, and to get his parents out here. Surely there's someone out there that can help."

Lowe also took to social media to spread the message to help Hodgson's family, tweeting: “Someone must be able to help Danny’s Family get into Perth. I am sure the Football and broader Australian community will rally and help.

"This is what Aussies do. Come on let’s bring them here to be at their sons side. Praying for a positive outcome. Stay strong Danny.”

A number of top players in Australia and the UK also shared the message, along with the link to Hodgson's GoFundMe page.

with AAP

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