Luckless Sammie Szmodics suffered a broken leg during the opening minutes of Colchester United’s disappointing 2-0 defeat at Crewe yesterday.

Attacking midfielder Szmodics, who has had two ankle operations in the last 12 months, endured yet more injury heartbreak after his challenge on Crewe striker Chris Dagnall left him clutching his leg in pain near the touchline.

The 21-year-old stayed down after the tackle, which was deemed to be a foul by the U’s man, and he was eventually stretchered off to the changing room and then on to hospital.

After the match, U’s boss John McGreal revealed: “Sammie (Szmodics) has gone off to hospital as a precaution. His leg is in a brace, and he’s gone for an X-ray.”

And later last night, Szmodics confirmed: “I’m gutted to break my leg in today’s game. But I’ll be back stronger.”

Yesterday was only Szmodics’ fourth appearance since his return from a three-month absence, following ankle surgery.

Dagnall scored both goals in Crewe’s win.