Former Wanderers youngster Chris Basham is “devastated” after suffering a horror injury during Sheffield United’s defeat against Fulham at the weekend.

The injury occurred during the first half when Basham landed awkwardly as he tried to deliver a cross into the box.

The 35-year-old, who came through the ranks at Bolton before heading to Blackpool, says he has had the first of two planned operations on his lower leg.

Tim Ream, another former Wanderers defender, consoled Basham on the pitch while he was receiving treatment.

The Sheffield United man wrote on his Instagram page: “Devastated with my injury in yesterday’s game. Had my first operation to clean things up and will have a second this week to make things right.

“I would like to thank the football world for their support in messages and social media posts, all my close friends and family, Sheffield united for taking care of me, Fulham for their support in the process, and Tim Ream for being there and putting football aside.”

Ream replied: “Thinking of you pal! Rest up and get right,” while the likes of Aaron Ramsdale and Harry Maguire also sent messages of support.

The Blades went on to lose the game 3-1 despite getting back on level terms in the second half through an Antonee Robinson own goal.

Speaking after the match, boss Paul Heckingbottom told BBC Sport: "He was not in a state to speak. He was on gas and air when he left (the pitch).

"Everyone could see it was a horrendous injury. He is with the right people now he is in hospital. We will touch base and see how he is.

"Our thoughts are with him. Injuries like that we never want to see, and it does affect the feeling in the football stadium when something like that happens, without a doubt.

"But I don't think it affected us. We tried to be as professional as we could and continue to fight."