HULL CITY midfielder Ryan Mason suffered serious head injuries after an aerial collision with Chelsea defender Gary Cahill during the 2-0 win for the Blues at Stamford Bridge.

The club confirmed last night that the 25-year-old received surgery for a fractured skull.

England defender Cahill secured the points for Antonio Conte's team in the last 10 minutes after Diego Costa's opener deep into first-half injury time.

The long stoppage came after Mason was treated on the pitch before being rushed to hospital wearing an oxygen mask.

Speaking before the full extent of his injuries were known, Cahill said: “We smashed heads, there was a massive impact and I know he went off. I wish him all the best.”

Hull manager Marco Silva said: "I imagine in this moment that he will stay in hospital. I hope nothing special, nothing serious, but we'll see.

"I don't know [if he is awake]. The doctor told me he was in the hospital and we await news.”

A Hull City statement read: "The club can confirm that Ryan Mason sustained a skull fracture in our fixture at Chelsea this afternoon.

"Ryan is in a stable condition and is expected to remain in hospital for the next few days.

"Everyone at the club would like to express their sincere thanks for the excellent and swift care given to Ryan by both the accident and emergency department and neurosurgery unit at St Mary’s Hospital."