Sharks player Andrew Fifita remains in intensive care in a Brisbane hospital following surgery late yesterday for a laryngeal fracture he suffered during a match on the weekend.
An update provided by the Sharks late last night said Fifita underwent laryngeal surgery late yesterday at the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital and was now recovering in ICU.
They said his family had requested privacy while he recovered.
"The surgeon carrying out the procedure informed [us] that the surgery was successful, with Andrew expected to make a full recovery," the Sharks said.
"Andrew will now remain in ICU in the short term, before continuing his recovery in hospital.
"Andrew's wife Nikki and the Fifita family would like to express their thanks to their many friends, Sharks members and fans and the wider rugby league community for the support and well wishes received, with the family now looking for some space and privacy during the recovery process.
"The Sharks will support Nikki and her family and allow Andrew the time to recover and ask that their wishes for privacy are respected during this time."
The long-time Sharks prop was injured during the second half of the Sharks match against Newcastle on Sunday. It was thought he had suffered a blow to his neck while making a tackle, with the NRL was reviewing footage to try to pinpoint the incident.
The NRL's match review committee has since cleared any Knights players of wrongdoing after viewing video footage of the game.
His Sharks teammates have since said they were shocked to learn the seriousness of his injury.
A distressed-looking Fifita, 32, could be seen getting medical treatment on the field before his condition worsened and he was taken to hospital.
According to AAP, Fifita was brought out of the dressing sheds about 20 minutes after the game ended, and onto the field where he was examined before being taken to hospital by ambulance.
The Sharks released a statement late Sunday evening in which they confirmed Fifita suffered an injury to his throat, following an incident early in the second half of the match against Newcastle.
"After the match, Andrew reported difficulty swallowing," the statement said.
"He was also noted to have a hoarse voice at this time and his care was escalated to the paramedics with a suspected laryngeal injury.
"He was taken via ambulance to hospital, where a significant laryngeal injury was confirmed.
"Andrew remains in hospital, where he is receiving the best possible care."
In an update the following day, the Sharks Fifita had suffered a laryngeal fracture and remained in an induced coma while awaiting surgery.
"Andrew is in a stable condition, with a surgical correction scheduled to take place (Tuesday) afternoon," the statement said.
"He is receiving the best possible care and all going well, it is expected he will recover in hospital for an extended period."
