Six breaks in Brebner's arm

Hibernian midfielder Grant Brebner has revealed his arm was broken in six places during his team’s Tennent’s Scottish Cup third-round defeat by Rangers.

The former Manchester United man suffered the horrific injury in the first half of Saturday’s game at Easter Road.

He was unaware of just how badly he was hurt until he looked at his arm himself.

“I know it sounds a bizarre thing to say, but my head was turned away from my arm – and I could only feel my arm down to the elbow,” he said.

“I thought the forearm must have been dangling in a hole in the pitch or something.

“It was only when I turned and saw my arm that I realised how bad it was.”

The initial diagnosis of the injury also under-estimated the extent of the damage.

“The doctors reckoned the arm was broken in four places. But when they actually opened it up they found two other breaks that hadn’t shown because of the angle the x-ray was taken at.

“They inserted two metal plates and screwed the bone together.

“The x-rays after the operation are amazing – it is astonishing how neatly they have put the bone back together. The surgeon is very pleased with the outcome.”

Brebner concedes the next few months will not be easy as he rests the injury away from the game.

He told his club’s official website, www.hibernianfc.co.uk: “I have to take the advice and rest. But I love my football, and it promises to be a difficult time.

“However, I will work hard with the physio and the coaches to keep my fitness ticking over – I can get on an exercise bike – to get back as quickly as I sensibly can.”

Brebner has been moved by the support he has received from well-wishers since he suffered the injury.

He said: “I have had a lot of visitors. Some of the players like Ian Murray and big Colin Murdock have been in to see me, as have one or two past players like big Yogi [Falkirk player-manager John Hughes] and (Dunfermline striker) Craig Brewster.

“In fact, Craig has been in twice to see me – which is typical of him.

“I have also had visits from the manager and coaches, from the fitness coach and from the physio – and I have had terrific support from managing director Rod Petrie.

“I know Rod dashed straight down from the stand when I was hurt, and it was comforting to see him there.

“I also got a very touching message from (Rangers manager) Alex McLeish, which was really nice of him.

“I would also like to thank the fans who have sent their best wishes.”