A man who collapsed while playing football at the University of Reading has returned to thank the first aider whose quick-thinking saved his life.

Michael Hagans, 63, from Tilehurst, Reading, suffered a cardiac arrest during a five-a-side game at SportsPark, where he has played every week for the 35 years.

Dean Goddard, who works at SportsPark, received a call for help and ran out with a defibrillator to rescue Michael.

 “What can you say if someone saves your life? There are not really words that are adequate. Thank you seems not enough,” said fork-lift truck driver, Micheal.

READ MORE: 'I became a slave to the Fair': Owner reveals why he shut down Carters after Reading show

“When these things happen, you’re not expecting them, and you always like to think there’s someone there who can do that job and save your life. I’m happy he was there to be able to do that.”

Dean gave Michael chest compressions and two electric shocks with the AED before an ambulance took him to the nearby Royal Berkshire Hospital.

Michael awoke from a coma two days later with no memory of what happened.

Since then, he has made a remarkable recovery, taking the time to cycle between Tilehurst and Sonning and is even making plans to return to playing football again.

Michael said: “My partner was there when I woke up and they told me what had happened. It was hard to come to terms with. There was no way I thought I could have a heart attack, but obviously I did.”

READ MORE: Man, 21, becomes seventh attempted murder suspect after pub 'stabbing'

He continued: “I went for a check-up yesterday and had various exercises and tests. The nurse was quite amazed at the speed of my recovery.

After being told about Dean’s heroic actions, Michael returned to the University to thank him.

He said: “First aid training is very important. It just happened suddenly, I was in the staff room at the time on my break.

“As far as I was concerned, that was my time to sit and relax. All of a sudden, someone had collapsed on the football pitch.

“It could happen at any moment. That’s why it’s so important to remind yourself about first aid and about the process of using a defibrillator. Keep yourself up to date because it can happen at any moment.”

Dean, who has worked at SportsPark for 11 years, was praised by police officers for the quick thinking under pressure that saved Michael’s life.

As well as helping to train a range of health professionals including pharmacists, physician associates and psychologists, the University of Reading offers first aid training to any member of staff who wants it.

The Red Cross can offer advice and training on first aid to members of the public.