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Virtual reality could spot concussion in footballers

A virtual reality (VR) headset could help football club doctors diagnose concussion more accurately, researchers have claimed.

Dr Michael Grey, of Birmingham University, said the £500 Oculus Rift system can quickly help medics detect "subtle changes" in players.

Trials of the technology follow several studies linking heading of footballs to degenerative brain disease.

The FA said it took the issue "extremely seriously".

Dr Grey said virtual reality technology helps to establish whether a player is concussed by testing their ability to balance at the same time as following instructions.

It would come into use when club doctors are forced to make decisions on the sidelines as to whether players should continue to play, he said.