MIKE Masters had an operation back in his native New York yesterday, after fracturing his patella during Kem Izzet’s Testimonial on Saturday.

Former Colchester United striker Masters, a member of the U’s double-winning squad of 1991-92, had returned to England to take part in last weekend’s 20th anniversary festivities at the Essex club.

However, the 43-year-old’s big day was spoilt by a serious injury, sustained while turning out for the ‘Boys of ‘92’ team against ‘Wiggy’s Wonders of ’98,’ the first of two matches to mark Izzet’s Testimonial.

Masters initially feared that he would have to have surgery in England, rather than back in his native America, but he contacted the EADT yesterday to reveal the latest.

“I flew back to New York on Monday, wearing the same brace that I wore at the anniversary dinner,” said Masters.

“I’m having surgery today. I’ll miss work this week and, probably, some of next week. Much will depend on how the knee reacts to the surgery.

“But despite the injury, it was a great event. It was wonderful to see so many old team-mates and supporters.”