Former Premier League defender cheats death in horror road smash while trying to rescue victims of another accident

FORMER Premier League star Abdeslam Ouaddou has cheated death in a horror road smash… while he was trying to rescue victims of ANOTHER accident.

The Moroccan centre-back spent four seasons with Fulham, making 28 appearances.

Ouaddou left for French side Rennes in 2005. He went on to play for Valenciennes, Nancy and clubs in Greece and Qatar.

He has been coach of top South African club Orlando Pirates since June.

But the 46-year-old was hit by a pickup truck on Sunday as he attempted to help victims of another car accident on their way back from a game.

Ouaddou was rushed to hospital, together with five of his staff.

His club announced: “Orlando Pirates Football Club can confirm that Head Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou and five members of the club’s staff were involved in a road traffic incident on Sunday night.

“The incident occurred on the R21 highway as the team returned from Gqeberha, following their hard-fought 3–0 victory against Chippa United.

“Upon encountering a collision between two vehicles, Coach Ouaddou and several staff members disembarked from the team bus to assist those involved.

“Tragically, while attending to the scene, a Nissan NP200 vehicle collided with the stationary vehicles, striking the group and causing serious injuries.

“Coach Ouaddou, along with the five affected staff members, were immediately transported to hospital, where they are currently receiving medical care.

“The Club is in close contact with the medical team and will provide updates on their recovery in due course.

“At this stage our priority is the health and wellbeing of our colleagues.

“The Club has made arrangements to ensure that the affected individuals and their families receive all the necessary support during this difficult time.

“We ask for privacy and respect for those involved as they focus on recovery. Further updates will be communicated when appropriate.”

Newly-promoted Fulham paid Nancy £2million for Ouaddou in 2001.

However he never fully settled in west London, and joined Rennes on loan two years later – signing a permanent deal with the Brittany club in 2005.

The defender won 58 Morocco caps, scoring three goals for the Atlas Lions.