HEREFORD United play-maker Ben Smith could be sidelined for up to three months after dislocating a shoulder in the 2-1 friendly win at Bromsgrove Rovers on Tuesday, writes Ian Morgan.
The former Southend and Yeovil midfielder had been on the pitch for only 10 minutes when he suffered the injury, after replacing trialist Michael Garity in the 60th minute.
The ex-Arsenal trainee had looked in impressive form for United in their previous two friendlies and the news is a massive blow for the Edgar Street club who are already operating with a small squad.
The injury to Smith overshadowed United's first pre-season victory which came from goals in each half by trialist Steve Guinan and marksman John Grant.
Former Shrewsbury and Plymouth striker Guinan levelled the scores in the 14th minute after United had fallen behind to Kevin Banner's early close-range effort.
Grant netted the winner in the 77th minute following good work by trialist Richard Teasdale.
Meanwhile, United have received a further setback with confirmation that Grant will miss the opening three matches of the new campaign after being sent-off for Northwich Victoria in the club's final match of last season.
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