The former Birmingham City player collapsed in the 23rd minute and had to be revived on the pitch with a defibrillator after his heart stopped.

The 24-year-old is now recovering in the intensive care unit at a hospital in Reims.

"Marco suffered a heart attack after just 20 minutes of the game," explained a brief statement on the club's website www.chamoisniortais.fr. "He needed to be resuscitated on the pitch with a defibrillator.

"He regained consciousness as he was being taken to Sedan's hospital.

"Marco was then taken to hospital in Reims which has a specialist cardiac unit. He is currently under observation.

"The swiftness of the reaction and treatment by the emergency services thankfully proved decisive."

Defibrillators have been obligatory for all French professional clubs since the 2005-2006 season.

Two high-profile tragedies from heart attacks have occurred on the pitch already this season.

Sevilla midfielder Antonio Puerta died three days after collapsing against Getafe at the start of the Spanish Primera Liga season and, in Scotland, Motherwell captain Phil O'Donnell died on December 29 when he suffered a heart attack during his side's game against Dundee United.