The man who broke Scott Severin’s leg in three places has spoken of his regret on hearing the “devastating news.”
Severin was taken to hospital during Dundee United’s home match against St Mirren on Saturday, where he had surgery on his right leg.
The triple-break is a career-threatening injury for the 32-year-old, who had made a solid start to the season.
The damage was done as Severin and St Mirren midfielder Jim Goodwin went in for a challenge in front of United’s box.
Severin was obviously in agony, but initially tried to walk off the pitch to receive treatment before being carried off on a stretcher.
The consensus was there was no intent to hurt on Goodwin’s part and the Irishman said he would be contacting Severin.
He said, “I am devastated for him to be honest and I wish him a speedy recovery. I had no idea it was that bad.
“He initially got up and tried to walk off the park and at one point refused the stretcher before realising it was too bad.”No maliceHe added, “It is devastating news this early in the season when there is a bad injury like that.
“I had one myself five or six years ago at Scunthorpe just after pre-season. Personally, I broke my right ankle so I know exactly how he is feeling.
“My sympathy goes out to him.”
Severin had not long recovered from a long-term ankle injury and faces a massive challenge to recover.
Asked if it could be a career-threatening injury, United boss Peter Houston said, “It is too early to say.
“Seve is a big character and will certainly try to get back. I wouldn’t like to say if it is or not.”
He added, “It is a blow for Scott as he is in the twilight of his career and getting on a bit.”
Houston also exonerated Goodwin saying, “I didn’t see any malice in the tackle.
“It was just two players going in for the ball and unfortunately Scott has come off the worst.”