Holwell forward Gary Drake was playing only his first full game back since breaking his leg two years ago this weekend in a game at Barrow.

But after just half-an-hour of Holwell Reserves' Leics Combination match with Leics Constabulary, Drake fell to the turf in agony, breaking the same leg in two places.

The air ambulance landed on the Welby Road pitch and flew the unlucky player to Leicester Royal Infirmary as the match was abandoned.

Reserves' manager Graham Lewin said: "He had worked so hard to regain his fitness, especially over the last six months.

"I had been bringing him back gradually – Saturday would have been his first full game.

"There was nothing wrong with the challenge, it was a perfectly good tackle, but he knew straightaway that he'd broken it.

"The surgeon said the old injury had healed properly, but it's in the same area. He's just a very unlucky lad."

Drake is a popular member of the Holwell squad, chiefly for his enthusiasm, dedication and commitment.

Manager Graham Lewin visited his stricken forward in hospital on Tuesday, by which time eight players had already been to check on his progress.

The 23-year-old had surgery on Monday to have a pin and screw inserted and now faces another lengthy lay-off. But Lewin believes Drake's passion for the game will inspire him to return.

He said: "We all wish him a speedy recovery and hope to have him back as soon as possible. His attitude is A1 and very positive and I'm very pleased about that.

"He's a great clubman and I've always got time for him. He has great commitment to the club and I would always pick him for that."