A FOOTBALL player’s face was split open after being kicked in the head during a match, leaving him with horrific injuries.
The National League returned this weekend, and for one club, the start of the season has already involved a major blow.
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Recently relegated from League Two, Carlisle United now face a season in the fifth tier of English football.
But in their season curtain raiser against Woking, the team were handed a significant blow as recent returnee Luke Armstrong had his face split open after being kicked in the head by the opponent’s goalkeeper.
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After putting his team ahead in the 57th minute, Armstrong, who had returned on loan from Motherwell FC, was involved in a tussle in the box trying to net the rebound.
Going headfirst, Armstrong was met with the studs of Woking keeper Craig Ross, leaving the player with horrific injuries.
Ross left the incident unpunished after he managed to connect with the ball before Armstrong, helping to prevent his side from falling further behind.
Armstrong was taken off and replaced by Georgie Kelly, and 10 minutes later, the side doubled their advantage as Ethan Robson dispatched a fine free-kick.
It was the opening victory needed for the newly relegated Carlisle as Mark Hughes‘ side started their campaign to return to League Two.
Sharing the result of the collision on social media, showed how Armstrong was left with a large cut down the right side of his face.
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In the post, Carlisle seemed in high spirits despite the horrific injury.
Carlisle said: “Battered and bruised, here’s your Player of the Match from today’s win over Woking FC.
“Well played, Luke!”
Armstrong made his debut for Carlisle in January 2024 after signing from Harrogate Town and has since appeared a total of 46 times for the side, contributing seven goals and three assists.
Following the season opener, Carlisle sit third in the league on goal difference.
It is unknown whether Armstrong will be fit to return for Carlisle’s clash against Boreham Wood on Saturday August 16.
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