Tottenham Hotspur have been branded as showing an "irresponsible and cavalier attitude" for allowing Hugo Lloris to play on against Everton despite being knocked unconscious.

The France goalkeeper came out to challenge Romelu Lukaku during their 0-0 draw at Goodison Park on Sunday and received a nasty blow to the head, but insisted on continuing the game, with manager Andre Villas-Boas also backing the 26-year-old's decision.

However, Spurs have since received criticism from brain injury charity Headway for the actions that they took.

Spokesman Luke Griggs added: "When a player - or any individual - suffers a blow to the head that is severe enough for them to lose consciousness, it is vital they urgently seek appropriate medical attention.

"A physio or doctor treating a player on pitch simply cannot accurately gauge the severity of the damage caused to the player's brain in such a setting as there may be delayed presentation of symptoms.

"By continuing to play, the player may have caused greater damage to his brain. He should have been removed from the game immediately and taken to hospital for thorough tests and observation."

Lloris looked as if he would leave the field on a stretcher after lengthy treatment, but decided to carry on.