Tough to watch: Raynal injury
Referee Mathieu Raynal sustained a double fracture of his tibia and fibula, a broken collarbone and a sprained left ankle after colliding with a player.
The injury occurred in a Top 14 fixture between Montpellier and Racing Metro on Friday and has left Raynal immobilised due to being unable to use crutches. He has no memory of the incident.
"Do not ask me how it happened, I do not really remember anything," he told The Independent.
"I am completely immobilised because I can't rely on crutches because of my broken collarbone. The doctors tell me that I could start walking and running in three months.
"Many players, coaches, managers and referees have called me to offer support: Paul Goze, Serge Blanco, Eric Bayle and many others. [Retired footballer] Jean-Michel Larqué also sent wishes which warms the heart. It gives me courage which I'll need."
We would also like to add our own best wishes to Raynal in his recovery.
Comments
pagra says...
I really don`t see any humor in this at all.
Posted 18:54 16th March 2013
runnrugby says...
Just saw the video. It was bad. Especially when they showed the slow motion replay. You often see players pushing or taking out refs when they get in the way of play, but this was totally accidental which is why in a cruel way made the injury so bad. Wish Mr Raynal all the best in his recovery.
Posted 03:25 13th March 2013
rugby_rockstar says...
Splat. I wouldn't wish that on any referee, except for Steve Walsh, Allan Rolland Craig Jubert and Bryce Lawence.
Nah seriously, get well soon Mr Raynal
Posted 14:13 12th March 2013
bothhands says...
Thats what happens to a mere mortal when he gets to close to professional rugby. Sounds really horrific, after I read the headline I assumed he had the shite kicked out of him after a series of naughty decisions ..... best of luck recovering Monsieur.
Posted 17:36 11th March 2013
lawynd says...
Poor bugger, that must have been some collision!
Posted 15:56 11th March 2013
Lucasrg says...
That sounds horrible indeed, I guess he was in the wrong place at the wrong time and maybe not so fit.
Good luck
Posted 14:55 11th March 2013
sirtidychris says...
Ow !!! Sounds like the sort of injuries you get from a severe car crash or skiing off a cliff !! get well soon and i hope you get all the support a professional rugby player would get allowing you to get back to running and earn a living in 3-6 months time !
Posted 14:38 11th March 2013