ATLANTA (AP) – Southern receiver Devon Gales, who was injured in Saturday’s loss at Georgia, had surgery on Sunday to repair several fractures in his neck.
The school said in a statement the fractures were stabilized. It said Gales has movement in his upper body and is in good spirits.
The surgery was performed at Athens Regional, where Gales will remain until he returns to Baton Rouge, Louisiana for further treatment.
Georgia coach Mark Richt said he visited Gales on Sunday and said he may call on Georgia fans to provide financial assistance if necessary.
Southern announced after Saturday’s 48-6 loss to No. 8 Georgia that Gales suffered a spinal injury in the game. He was hurt while blocking on a kickoff return.