Bucks striker Matty Lewis today re-lived the moment his season was shattered by a broken leg, but insisted: “I will get back on the goal trail.”

Lewis, who was the club’s top scorer last season, was today hoping to have his leg pinned after breaking his tibia and fibula during Friday night’s pre-season friendly with Cheltenham, which finished 0-0.

He has been in Coventry’s Walsgrave Hospital since Sunday, with the operation having been twice being postponed to add to his woes.

The giant marksman had hit four goals in his first two friendlies and admits he has taken some time to come to terms with what has happened.

“I’d not felt so fit for a long time,” said Lewis. “Last pre-season was up and down – but this time I felt good and this is such a blow because I’ve never had a serious injury and I’ve rarely missed a game throughout my career.

“I was just passing the ball and, as I side-footed it, my studs got caught in the ground and the force of my body took me over.

“I knew straight away I’d broken something because I heard the snap – I was just hoping it was a shin pad or something because it took a moment for the pain to kick in.

“There’s no good time to do something like this, but at least now the start of the season is some way away.

“Hopefully I can play my part further down the line.”

Lewis, who is expected to be out for a minimum of 12 weeks, also paid tribute to his manager, team-mates and fans for helping to lift his spirits over the last few days.

“I’m just grateful for all the support I’ve had – from the gaffer (Rob Smith) right down to the players and the fans,” he added.

“I’ve been getting texts and messages on Facebook from people I don’t really know and I appreciate every one – it helps makes you feel there is light at the end of the tunnel.”

By Chris Hudson