Fabrice Muamba made a emotional return to White Hart Lane this evening, almost seven months after suffering a near-fatal cardiac arrest at the ground.

The former Bolton Wanderers star watched Tottenham Hotspur defeat Maribor 3-1 in the Europa League, and stepped out onto the pitch at half-time to address the crowd.

"I can't express... All I can say is thanks to the Tottenham fans the way they reacted [when I collapsed]," he said.

"There are people out there who prayed for me. I want to thank the chairman, and to all the Spurs fans. I am grateful to them. They are awesome fans."

Since recovering, Muamba has spent his time raising awareness about cardiovascular health and working on an autobiography.

"We just want to raise money so everyone has their heart checked. Today I wanted to visit that place one more time for closure," he added.

Muamba, who was given a standing ovation after he addressed the Spurs fans, married his girlfriend Shauna last month.