Martyn Naylor is facing up to the worst injury of his career after fracturing his cheekbone in a collision with AFC Telford United team-mate Lee Vaughan.

The 31-year-old defender suffered the treble fracture in the FA Trophy clash at Kettering a fortnight ago.

And, while his team-mates went in search of a Valentine’s Day victory at Workington this afternoon, Naylor was at home with his new wife recuperating.

“We were both challenging for the ball – we’ve sandwiched their lad and I’ve come off worst,” said Naylor, who has been told he will not be able to play again until the pre-season.

“Vaughany’s called and texted me to apologise but I’ve told him not to worry because these things happen in football – it’s not his fault at all.

“I actually got married last Sunday and my face was okay then, but it’s blown up like a balloon now.

“I had to go for an operation on Tuesday. 

“They were originally going to pin it but that couldn’t happen because the break was so bad.

“They’ve had to piece it together instead and I’ve got a splint on the side of my face that I’ve got to keep on for a week or two.

“It’s the worst injury I’ve ever had and it’s so frustrating because I actually feel like I could play but I couldn’t risk taking a bang. I’ve been told I can’t do anything for three months.”

Meanwhile, Naylor has pledged to do what ever he can to support his team-mates over the last three months of the season as the Blue Square North promotion race hots up.

The former Shrewsbury and TNS man feels he can still play a part in the dressing room and is refusing to let his injury dampen his spirits.

“I’ve texted a couple of the lads already telling them we’ve got to get promotion so we can get good contracts for next year,” he joked.

“I wish I could be out there to help, but I can still encourage the lads and be around them when they need it.

“We’re in a great position and there’s still plenty of games to play, I think we just need to do a little better against the lesser teams and we’re in with a good chance.”

By CHRIS HUDSON