Mikel Arteta has thanked fans of Arsenal and Liverpool after he suffered a severe concussion when Jordan Henderson momentarily thought he was playing the NFL.

The Arsenal midfielder took the full impact of Henderson’s sly shoulder to his jaw and was stretchered off with an oxygen mask to generous applause from the home fans, considering his Everton past.

Arteta described the incident as ‘terrifying’ although said he remembered little of it, but made a point of acknowledging the reception he got at Anfield on Saturday.

“I’ve since looked back at the TV images of when I was being taken off and just want to show my appreciation to the Liverpool fans at Anfield,” he said. “It is touching to receive that response from the fans of a great club when I am leaving the pitch injured. Thank you.

“I also want to thank Pepe Reina and the Liverpool players who have sent me messages of support and friendship, this again is really touching and just shows class from a great football club.

“And very importantly, a message to all the fantastic Arsenal fans, not only all those at Anfield on Saturday who were brilliant, but also those who have sent me many messages since Saturday. It is hugely appreciated.”

The Spaniard could well be in contention to play against AC Milan tomorrow night having declared himself ‘fine’, but Arsene Wenger should confirm his availability soon when he meets the press ahead of the Champions League tie.

Update: Arteta is out of tomorrow’s game, Arsene confirms at his press conference.

Henderson, meanwhile, seems to have escaped punishment despite replays which seem to illustrate contact with Arteta was deliberate. While he clearly wasn’t expecting his opponent to turn face first into him, he should still be held accountable for the damage he did.

You can see a GIF of the incident here.