City rocked by injury to Big Ben

Last updated : 14 January 2005 By Gary Hutchinson
Futch - Injury Shocker
The Imps have been rocked by news that Ben could be out until the end of the season after an accidental collision with a teammate in training earlier this week that resulted in a depressed fracture of the cheekbone and a fractured eye socket.

The towering six footer will be sorely missed if only for his commanding ariel presence, but if rumours are believed to be true then Ben could have made his last appearance for the Imps. The son and nephew of Ron and Paul Futcher has been transfer listed on his own request and is out of contract at the end of the season. For the time being however a move will be the last thing on Futchers mind as he is currently awaiting surgery that is scheduled to take place on Monday at Lincolns Nuffield Hospital.

Futcher has missed just one game this season, the thrilling 3-4 home reverse against Orient. Gareth McAuley is all set to take Futchers place at the heart of the City defence for the home clash with Ian Atkins’ Bristol Rovers side.