Drogheda United are likely to be without captain Declan O'Brien for rest of the season after the striker fractured his jaw in two-places yesterday.

The 27-year-old was forced off following an accidental collision with Bray Wanderers goalkeeper Chris O'Connor during yesterday's 1-0 win at the Carlisle Grounds.

The goalkeeper had raced off his line to clear a ball but accidentally collided with the striker who, after lengthy treatment, was assisted off the pitch.

O'Brien, whose eight league goals have helped second-placed Drogheda maintain a title push this season, was operated on last night in St James's Hospital.

His loss is a massive blow to manager Paul Doolin who is preparing his side for next week's Uefa Cup clash with Finnish side HJK Helsinki.