Crusaders coach provides potential injury return timeline for star striker
Crusaders coach Sean O’Neill has provided a potential injury return timeline for star striker Fraser Bryden with their talisman only set to miss “a couple of weeks”.
After Bryden collided heavily with a post during a 4-2 Premiership defeat to Larne last weekend, the 21-year-old was treated on the pitch for 10 minutes before being stretchered off and transported to hospital.
Initial fears at Seaview were Bryden had broken his leg, but the injury ultimately wasn’t as bad as first thought and the Scottish ace is plotting a return to the pitch.
It comes as a major boost for Crues manager Declan Caddell, who is looking to mastermind his side’s mission to avoid potential relegation threat – they currently sit 11th, nine points clear of basement club Glenavon.
Bryden had scored his 17th league goal of the season with a stunning volley prior to suffering his injury and has enjoyed a sensational maiden campaign in the Irish League.
It appears unlikely Bryden will be available for Tuesday’s crucial trip to Ballymena United, who sit one position and point above Crusaders, but is set to return in the near future.
"He's a big player for us, he has been a massive part of the season so far for Crusaders,” said O’Neill on BBC Sportsound. “To get the good news that’s he just going to be out for a couple of weeks, it was great.
"Ultimately, we want him back sooner rather than later, but it’s really good news.”
Bryden had attracted interest from a number of clubs across the water during the recent transfer window, but remained with Crusaders.
Caddell praised his impact since arriving from Ayr United last summer and says he’s a popular member of his changing room.
“He's been colossal for us this season, he's been exceptional,” said Caddell after last weekend’s match. “He's got the reviews that he's deserved and he scored a wonder goal before his injury.
"It is (his hunger) and that's him all over. He fights for every ball, chases every ball, puts his body on the line even when it hurts.
"Fraser's a great character. He's been brilliant to work with, brilliant with his team-mates. He's really well loved by his team-mates. He's a popular figure in the changing room."