Kinlochshiel midfielder Paul MacRae is expected to be released from Raigmore Hospital, Inverness, on Tuesday after sustaining a shattered kneecap.
The 40-year-old recent Tulloch Homes Camanachd Cup winner now faces a question mark over his playing future and his chance of playing for the Wester Ross club as they bid to win the MacTavish Cup for the first time on October 23.
MacRae was taken by ambulance from the Spean Bridge pitch on Saturday after being injured in the Mowi League match with Lochaber, which was then abandoned.
Keith MacRae, the Kinlochshiel captain, said afterwards: “Paul has a shattered kneecap plus ligament damage and underwent an operation in Raigmore on Sunday.
“All our players have been sending him messages of sympathy and support via our group chat app. Lochaber manager Danny Delaney has also sent a message to the club extending best wishes for Paul’s recovery.
“The injury came from a normal clash, but, sadly, Paul’s damage is extensive, and we’ve all been shocked.
“The indication is he is about to be allowed home on Tuesday, but it will be a long rehabilitation process. However, we’ll all offer him every encouragement.”
Paul, a stonemason, has been known for his dedicated approach to fitness and training.
He won the man of the match award when Shiel lost to Newtonmore in the 2018 MacTavish Cup Final, but will now be missing when the Reds face Kingussie at Bught Park in the big match on Saturday week.
