Former Republic of Ireland international Rory Delap broke his right leg in two places last night when making his home debut for Stoke City against Sunderland.
Delap, on loan from Sunderland until January, suffered the double leg fracture in a challenge with defender Robbie Elliott just 12 minutes into the game which Stoke came from behind to win 2-1.
Elliott said he was "sick to the stomach" after the challenge and has passed on his regards to 30-year-old Delap who will have surgery today.
"I knew what happened and how serious it was straight away and I was sick to the stomach," Elliott said. "You do not like to see that happen to any player, but when it happens to a friend, it makes it even worse.
"I have spoken to Rory's wife and obviously my thoughts are with him now, and I would wish him a full and speedy recovery."
Sunderland manager Roy Keane has also sent Delap his best wishes. "As soon as it happened we knew Rory was in trouble," Keane said.
"It was just an accident. He'll be back and I hope the operation goes well for him. . .please God he'll be OK."
Delap, who made 11 appearances for the Republic of Ireland, is due to undergo surgery this morning and is expected to be sidelined for at least six months.
