Accrington defender Tom Bender has admitted he was lucky to avoid serious injury after describing his horrific collision during last week's Johnstone's Paint Trophy match against Tranmere as seeming "like more of a dream than reality".
The match last Tuesday night had to be abandoned as Bender received treatment for half an hour following an accidental clash with team-mate Ian Dunbavin. Oxygen and a drip were used on the pitch, raising concerns that the 18-year-old had broken his neck. It was later confirmed that he had suffered severe concussion.
The on-loan Colchester defender told Sky Sports News: "When I came round, the phone lines were going mad and there were rumours I had broken my neck and even some that I could die. When I spoke to the doctors and they told me the outcome, it really made me realise how lucky I am."
He added: "I have no recollection of what happened, it seems like someone else when I watch it back. It seems like more of a dream than reality."
Far from allowing himself some prolonged recuperation time, Bender is already eyeing a return to action.
He said: "I am getting there. It's improving and I feel a lot better than did on Tuesday.
"Hopefully it's not long before I am back."
Source: PA
