Former Man Utd ace speaks out on horror leg break tackle | Football | Sport

Antonio Valencia has delivered a heartfelt message to a fellow Ecuadorian footballer following a horrific leg fracture during a match. Jean Pierre Arroyo Vernaza was representing Independiente del Valle on Saturday in a top-flight clash against Mushuc Runa.

However, his involvement ended after just 60 minutes. Whilst attempting to break through towards goal, he was brought down by opposing defender Brian Negro. Vernaza sustained an obvious ankle injury, with his foot twisted in an unnatural direction, before collapsing to the ground in agony.

Negro received a straight red card for the challenge but disputed the decision, sparking a mass confrontation between both teams, with some players visibly distressed.

Meanwhile, Vernaza underwent extensive medical attention on the pitch before being transported to hospital by ambulance. Former Manchester United winger Valencia is among those who have sent messages of support after the incident, having endured a comparable injury during his spell at Old Trafford.

Posting on Twitter, he said: “Stay strong in these tough times, you have to come back even stronger. There is no other option, friend.”

In the meantime, a statement from Independiente del Valle read: “Club Independiente del Valle, in light of the unfortunate injury suffered by our player Jean Pierre Arroyo Vernaza, deeply appreciates the overwhelming number of messages, expressions of affection, and concern shown by fans, clubs, and the entire football community.

“This support and solidarity are a fundamental driving force for Jean Pierre to face this moment with strength and return to the pitch stronger than ever. The club sends him all our strength and wishes him a speedy and successful recovery. The entire Independiente del Valle team and family are with him during this difficult time.”

Additionally, Negro has issued an apology following the incident. Speaking to Diario Ecuador, he said: “I apologize. Being faster, I caught his ankle. As a person and a footballer, I feel terrible. I’ve called to go to the hospital when things calm down, because it’s still hot.

“I hadn’t realized (what happened). Wishing him a successful operation and a speedy recovery.”

Independiente del Valle ultimately triumphed 3-1. Elvis Velasco had put Mushuc Runa ahead, with Emerson Pata levelling before the interval.

Negro received his marching orders for his tackle on 63 minutes, with both Cristopher Angulo and Jordy Alcivar also dismissed following the melee between the two teams. Independiente ultimately clinched victory through two late strikes from Matias Mijail Perello.