Former Premier League footballer Jermaine Pennant is recovering in hospital following a dog attack in North London. The ex-Arsenal and Liverpool winger needed more than 50 stitches to treat his injuries.
According to the 43-year-old, his own dog played a crucial role in protecting him during the harrowing incident.
Pennant taken to hospital
Pennant was out walking his American Akita named King when a German Shepherd approached them. In an interview with The Sun, the ex-footballer recounted that the other dog initially attacked his pet, prompting him to intervene in an effort to protect King.
However, the German Shepherd then turned its aggression on Pennant, knocking him to the ground. He described the terrifying moment when the dog held onto his leg for at least five seconds.
"It was truly frightening. I felt immense pressure. Just imagine the force of a dog biting a person. King jumped in to defend me," said Pennant.
The former player noted that his dog stayed by his side until help arrived.
"He saved my life. If King had been a smaller dog, I wouldn't have stood a chance," the Englishman added.
More than 50 stitches and potential surgery
Following the incident, Pennant's girlfriend summoned a taxi to transport him to hospital. On Friday evening, doctors treated four bite wounds on his right leg, stitching them up with over 50 stitches.
One of the wounds may require plastic surgery. Nonetheless, Pennant confirmed that he feels fine and his dog emerged unharmed from the ordeal. He also stated that he has not reported the incident to the police.
Pennant's career in English football
Pennant hung up his boots in 2017. Throughout his career, he represented clubs including Arsenal, Liverpool, Leeds, Birmingham, Portsmouth, and Stoke City among others.
Since retiring, the former winger has transitioned into a football pundit, making regular appearances on Talksport.
