One of Miron Bleiberg's most promising young players, 19-year-old midfielder Brown went down awkwardly after attempting to spin away from his marker in a training session and was quickly ferried to hospital for x-rays.

United physiotherapist, David Battersby, said Brown's injury has been diagnosed as an undisplaced fracture of the right fibula, but luckily does not require surgery.

"It was a non-contact injury; he caught his foot in the ground, slipped a little then rolled forward on it," Battersby said.

He continued: "There was an audible crack, which is of course suspicious, and as soon as we examined him it was apparent that we were dealing with a fracture.

"In terms of bone fractures it is the best case scenario given that there is no surgery required. He will have to wear a protective ‘boot' and keep weight off the leg for at least a fortnight, but we expect a full recovery.

"With this type of injury we would anticipate that he be back in full training in around eight weeks."

The injury blow means local lad Brown will miss the hotly anticipated clash with Barclays English Premier League side Fulham at Skilled Park on July 8, but should be close to full fitness in time for the start of the  season in early August.

Coach Miron Bleiberg said Brown would "bounce back" from the injury despite the disappointment of missing the chance to play against the team that finished seventh in the English Premier League.

"It is obviously very upsetting and frustrating for James that he will miss the game against Fulham, but he has his whole career in front of him and he will be back both better and stronger," said Bleiberg.

"He can set a target of the start of the A-League for his comeback and he will play in plenty of games this season.

"James is a top young player, a lovely guy and this is a setback for him, but the main thing is that we know he will recover fully."