Sunderland striker has surgery on broken cheekbone

The 20-year-old is on loan from Sunderland and has been impressing north of the border, scoring four goals in 15 appearances.

Nelson suffered the head injury late on during Saturday’s match against Dunfermline Athletic, with the forward subbed in the 88th minute.

Falkirk confirmed Nelson suffered a broken cheekbone and underwent surgery on Thursday.

The operation went well and the striker is now recovering.

Nelson tweeted: "Thank you all for the kind messages, unfortunately these things happen in football but I’m glad that am now on the mend."

A Falkirk statement read: "The club would like to now take the opportunity to update supporters on the condition of striker, Andrew Nelson.

"The 20-year old suffered a head injury during Saturday’s match against Dunfermline Athletic.

"Andrew has since been receiving treatment with confirmation received yesterday that his cheekbone was broken.

"He underwent an operation this afternoon to repair this and we are pleased to report that the surgeon has confirmed that this procedure went well.

"The club’s priority has always been that of the player’s wellbeing, health and privacy and having spoken with Andrew this evening we now feel in a position to comment.

"Everyone at the club wishes Andrew the very best in his recovery, we will update further in due course."

Earlier this year, Nelson signed a new one-year deal to extend his stay at Sunderland. His original deal was due to run out this summer.