Lens midfielder Benjamin Bourigeaud requires surgery on a hand injury suffered when he was attacked by fans of his own team.
Bourigeaud, 21, was out in nearby Arras with former teammate Baptiste Guillaume when the latter was confronted by Lens fans angered by his transfer to rivals Lille.
Bourigeaud attempted to defend his close friend and suffered a fracture to his hand. Coach Antoine Kombouare revealed details of the incident after Bourigeaud missed Le Sang Et Or's goalless preseason friendly against Tubize on Tuesday evening.
Bon rétablissement pour ta fracture à la main @Benjii_Izii ! #rclens https://t.co/a262ONt3G2
- Racing club de Lens (@rclensofficiel) July 21, 2015
"Benjamin Bourigeaud has a hand injury," Kombouare told reporters in France. "He has a fracture and will need a small operation.
"He had problems with some people in Arras when he was walking with Baptiste Guillaume. They were ambushed.
"Six people attacked Baptiste because he now plays for Lille. Benjamin tried to defend him.
"They know that these days, when you go out, you can be subject to provocation from people who are jealous. You must not respond to provocation.
"If you cannot manage that, you must not go out."
Bourigeaud posted a message on Twitter aimed at Lens fans in general, reassuring them that his injuries are not severe.
Un message à tout les supporters Lensois. Tout va bien ne vous inquiétez pas je serai de retour très vite ��❤️ #TeamSang&Or
- Benjamin Bourigeaud (@Benjii_Izii) July 21, 2015
"A message to all Lens supporters," he wrote. "All is well, do not worry, I will be back very soon."
