Donegal cyclist Philip Deignan has suffered a horrific crash breaking his collarbone during a time trial at the Tour of Britain.
Deignan – broke his collarbone in crash
The Unitedhealthcare team confirmed the Letterkenny man was rushed to hospital and an x-ray confirmed his injury.
The news is a huge blow for Team Ireland, who he was due to ride for at the World Road Race Championships in Florence on Sunday week.
A spokesman for his team said “Earlier today, Tuesday, September 17th, team member Philip Deignan suffered a crash with 4km to go in the time trial at the 2013 Tour of Britain.”
“Phil went over the handle bars and was transported to the hospital to receive treatment for his injuries. The doctor at the hospital confirmed that X-rays taken revealed Phil suffered a fractured collarbone.”
“He will be examined tomorrow morning, Wednesday, September 18, at a hospital near Manchester, and is scheduled for surgery on Thursday morning, September 19.”
“Please wish Phil a speedy recovery and the best as he heals from his injury. We will keep you updated as more information becomes available.”
Things were going so well for Deignan who signed up for the highly-rated Team Sky for next season.
He has had a superb 2013 season that saw him claim the overall victory at the Tour of Gila, second overall at the Tour of Beauce and top ten overall finishes at the Tours of Utah and California.