WELLINGTON’S football skipper Sam Bryant has been ruled out for the rest of the season through injury.

The 25-year-old midfielder has not played at all this season after damaging cruciate knee ligaments in a freak training accident.

He is on stand-by to have an operation at any time and then faces six to nine months of rehab.

“Sam’s been desperately unlucky,” said Wellington boss Clive Jones yesterday.

“He has to build up the leg before he can even have the operation. And then it’s a long job - even pros are out for at least six months.

“I want him to keep interested because there will be dark days and I’m inviting him to join the management team.

“He’s obviously very down about not playing but he wants to play again and I’m sure he will.

“He was going to be a key member of my team this season - that’s why I chose him as captain.”

Sam is one of four footballing brothers with the club, the others – Jack, Conor and Luke – are also first team players.

Meanwhile, Wellington play three times in the first division of the Toolstation League in the next six days.

They are in action at home to Radstock Town tonight (Wed), home against Westbury United on Saturday and visit Cheddar next Tuesday.

“This will really test my squad,” added Jones, whose side remain third in the table after Saturday’s fine 3-0 away victory over Oldland Abbotonians.

Wellington Reserves are away to Lyme Regis in Division One of the Devon and Exeter League on Saturday and will be seeking revenge for a 2-1 home defeat by the Seasiders only three weeks ago.

Hemyock entertain Meadowbank Athletic in Division Six while Wellington Thirds are away to Woodbury Reserves in Division Seven.