Matt O’Riley’s record-breaking move to Brighton and Hove Albion turned sour just six minutes into his debut for the club.
The former Celt started in Tuesday night’s Carabao Cup tie with Crawley Town but was the subject of a horror tackle from Jay Williams.
O’Riley had to be withdrawn early on, the attack-minded midfielder limping off in visible distress.
He was seen heading to his car post-match in crutches and now, things have gotten even worse for the 23-year-old.
Indeed, this morning, it has been confirmed that O’Riley requires surgery. Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler lifted the lid on the condition of the new signing.
“It’s a bad injury”, he said (Andy Naylor of The Athletic on X).
“He needs surgery on his ankle. I can’t say how long he will be out.”
Hopefully, O’Riley can get back to fitness as soon as possible but at the minute, things aren’t looking promising.
It is a shame for Matt because he never struggled with injuries throughout his time at Celtic.
Despite this, he will likely be out for a prolonged spell now but when he eventually returns, he will take the English Premier League by storm and prove his quality.
