UNITED striker Paul Brown is facing a lengthly spell on the sidelines after breaking his elbow on the stock car track during Saturday's defeat to Linfield.

The big former Limavady United forward, fell on the track and immediately the signs where not good as a number of Linfield players ran to his assistance. He was substituted and taken straight to casualty in the 39th minute.

Manager Tommy Wright told the Newsletter: "Paul has broken a bone at the top of his forearm at the elbow joint. He will need a pin inserted and will have an operation on Wednesday.

"Unfortunately we won't know how long Paul will be out for until he has the operation and sees a specialist, I would, however, like to thank the Linfield team doctor who helped out after the incident."

*In other news Ballymena United Reserves travel to Mourneview Park tonight for their rearranged George Wilson Cup game, needing a win to keep their hopes qualification to the semi-finals alive.