Bradford City player Gordon Watson's career had been "effectively destroyed" by a tackle during a Division One game two years ago, a Court heard today.

The claim was made at the start of a hearing at Newcastle Crown Court to establish the level of damages for City striker Watson.

Mr Watson won his civil action against Huddersfield Town defender Kevin Gray in October last year.

The striker's right leg was broken in two places during a derby game between Huddersfield and Bradford on February 1, 1997.

Today Andrew Prynne QC, representing Mr Watson, told Mr Justice Taylor that the injury had left an athlete who was "at the top of the tree with residual problems".

Mr Prynne said: "The injury in footballing terms had left some residual problems that make the vital difference between an also-ran player and someone who might be in demand at the top level."

Mr Prynne also said that Watson's injury had left him with emotional scars and had resulted in a loss of confidence.

The hearing continues.

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