Reading favourite Shaka Hislop is 'conscious' and 'talking' after his scary collapse live on ESPN last night.

The 54-year-old began his British career with Reading, playing 104 times between 1992 and 1995 before going on to become a popular figure with the likes of Newcastle United and West Ham.

Covering AC Milan's pre-season friendly with Real Madrid in America, the former keeper stumbled and fell to the floor during a pre-match interview.

The cameras cut to an advert break while he was assisted by co-host Dan Thomas.

Thomas gave worried viewers an update at half-time, and thankfully it was a positive one.

Thomas said: "My mate, Shaka, not here, but as it stands, it's good news.

"He's conscious. He's talking. I think he's a little embarrassed about it all. He's apologised profusely. Not a man who likes people to make a fuss of him.

"Obviously far too early to make any sort of diagnosis, but the important thing is that Shaka's conscious and we spoke to his family as well, because you imagine seeing that happen live."

Hislop was recently awarded the Freedom of Newcastle for his work with Show Racism the Red Card.