Tony Craig has revealed his hand will be in plaster for at least another month – but he insists it won't affect his game in the least.
The Brentford defender broke two bones in the top of hand during the win over Gillingham two weeks ago, and after having it strapped up, returned to the pitch to see the game out.
With centre back partner Harlee Dean still injured for the win over Bristol City four days later, missing any game time did not even cross Craig's mind as he played with a cast over his hand.
“I've had a broken metatarsal before, but never a broken hand,” said the former Millwall man. “I never even thought about leaving the pitch, the adrenaline was pumping, and I'm the sort of person who will stay on if I can.
“The medical staff here were superb. They had two casts made up for me by the following day – one for playing football in and one for everyday use, and I will be wearing them for another four t five weeks at least.
“But it has not affected my game so far, and I will not let it in the future. Once you're out there on the pitch with the adrenaline pumping again, you don't even think about it.”
Dean was back alongside Craig for Saturday's 1-1 draw at Shrewsbury, but it was a defensive error in the final minute which saw all three points snatched away from the Bees.
Craig said: “It was a windy day, and to lose the lead in the last minute was disappointing – but we're a team who can bounce back, although it won't be easy against Crawley.
“Kevin O'Connor did excellently well filling in while Harlee was injured, but it was good to have Harlee back. We have played a lot of games together, and our partnership seems to work.”
