A Scots footballer unwittingly played with a broken leg for SIX WEEKS after x-rays failed to spot the fracture.
Defender Chris McGowan turned out five times for Ayrshire Junior side Kilwinning Rangers after picking up the injury in a league clash on October 12.
The 21-year-old full back was sent for two x-rays but neither identified the problem.
He continued to play through the pain barrier, helping Kilwinning to consecutive victories, before the injury finally took it's toll in a match against Largs Thistle last weekend.
The former Stranraer ace was hooked at half-time in clear discomfort and sent for a third scan which picked up a fractured fibula.
He will go under the knife just before Christmas and is likely to miss the rest of the season.
Kilwinning manager Chris Strain this week hailed the player's "incredible" character.
He said: "Young players these days are criticised for lacking resilience but that’s certainly not the case with Chris.
“It’s a real testament to his character that, despite being in constant pain for weeks, he was still desperate to play and help his teammates.
"It’s actually incredible to think he's been playing with a broken leg.”
McGowan signed for Kilwinning - nicknamed the Buffs - in the summer after a spell at League One Stranraer where he made 31 first team appearances.
