David May, a former Manchester United defender, recalls the horrific leg-break suffered by Coventry City defender David Busst at Old Trafford on April 8, 1996. Busst’s injury is considered one of the worst football injuries captured on film. The incident occurred during a Premier League match where Manchester United was leading the league, and Coventry City was fighting against relegation. Busst’s leg-break occurred as he collided with two United players while attempting to score from a corner kick. The injury left his leg at a sickening angle, causing immense pain and shock among the players and spectators.
The match continued after Busst’s injury, with Manchester United winning 1-0, but the details of the game remain a blur for those involved. The rudimentary setup at football grounds at the time meant that proper medical attention was not readily available on the pitch. United’s physio, David Fevre, had to lead a complex response to Busst’s injury, ensuring his stability and preventing further complications. The injury was so severe that the referee, Dermot Gallagher, struggled to revisit the memory of that day for years.
Busst underwent multiple surgeries and treatments to address the compound fractures in his leg, infections, and other complications. Despite his resilience, he never played professionally again. His recovery process was painful and challenging, involving extensive medical interventions to repair the damage to his leg. Busst’s positive attitude and determination to move forward have allowed him to find new opportunities after his football career was cut short. He now plays veterans’ football and retains a competitive spirit despite the challenges he has faced.
The incident had a lasting impact on those involved, with players and fans still haunted by the severity of Busst’s injury. For Schmeichel, the goalkeeper who witnessed the injury up close, it was a moment that bonded him with Busst. Years later, Busst was able to find closure as he returned to Old Trafford as a youth coach, showing resilience and strength in the face of adversity. Despite the trauma of the injury and its aftermath, Busst has found ways to move forward and use his experience to connect with others who have faced similar challenges in their careers.
