Crusaders have issued a positive injury update on star striker Fraser Bryden, who was stretchered off during Saturday’s Premiership defeat to Larne, confirming “there is nothing broken” – and the Scottish ace is already plotting his return to action.

There was widespread concern when Bryden collided heavily with a post in the second half at Seaview, receiving treatment from both medical teams for around 10 minutes before being carried off and transported to hospital.

Initial fears were Bryden had suffered a broken leg with manager Declan Caddell saying “it doesn’t look good”, but scans have now revealed the injury isn’t as severe as first thought.

The 21-year-old had earlier scored his 17th league goal of the season with a spectacular volley drawing Crusaders level at 2-2 and he suffered an injury while trying to put them ahead following a dangerous free-kick delivery.

placeholder image — Crusaders striker Fraser Bryden scored before suffering a leg injury on Saturday. (Photo by David Maginnis/Pacemaker Press)

While Bryden is set to undergo further scans to determine the extent of any potential damage, the North Belfast club have revealed their talisman is looking forward to making his return.

"After speaking to Fraser earlier he has happily informed us that there is nothing broken after lengthy checks in hospital,” the club posted. “He will have to go for further scans to further determine any other damage (if any) and is already planning his return to the pitch in red and black at the earliest opportunity.

“Fraser has also asked to pass on his thanks and love to everyone who have wished him well and he will be back stronger, fitter and even more determined to lead the line when he gets the thumbs up to get back at it.

“Great news to everyone and hope Fraser is back scoring and celebrating goals like he did yesterday.”

Crusaders, who currently occupy the Premiership’s relegation play-off position, impressively fought their way back into the match after falling 2-0 behind against the league leaders.

Harry Jewitt-White and Bryden got them back on level terms, but a defensive mistake allowed Matty Lusty to restore Larne’s advantage before a Paul O’Neill header sealed maximum points for the Inver Reds.

Caddell believes an injury suffered to popular Bryden rocked his side and admits they never recovered from the setback.

“He's been colossal for us this season, he's been exceptional,” said Caddell after the match. “He's got the reviews that he's deserved and he scored a wonder goal before his injury.

"My thoughts are on Fraser's well-being and the severity of what's happened.

"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. Unfortunately it hasn't ended well today, it's disappointing.

"I thought we had Larne against the ropes up until that and then it deflated the team, which is understandable.

"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. We lose someone like that and a talisman, as he's been this season, it does knock the stuffing out of you a wee bit...we didn’t recover.

“Obviously centre-forward wasn't something I was looking for (in transfer window), but it may be now. We'll see the severity of what Fraser's done and where he sits.”