A BURY football coach has been awarded more than £1 million in damages following a tackle which ended his playing career.

Chris Casper, a former Manchester United defender, was playing for Reading when he suffered a double fracture of his left leg in a challenge by Cardiff's Richard Carpenter during a clash on Boxing Day, 1999.

Casper, who was only 24 at the time of the injury, now coaches Bury FC's youth team. Following the tackle, he underwent emergency surgery at University of Wales Hospital. He did manage to play a few reserve games between March and October, 2000, but was finally forced to hang up his boots.

Lawyers launched a lengthy legal battle for compensation, which has finally resulted in a settlement figure of more than £1m although the exact amount has not been disclosed.

After the announcement that the legal deal had been agreed, Casper spoke of his relief.

"The tackle and the injuries I sustained changed the course of my life and, inevitably, there have been some difficult times for my family and me," he said. "I enjoyed more than ten years of professional football. The game has always played a major part in my life and it was a shock to suffer an injury of this nature.

"I am now coaching with Bury Football Club and enjoying the second chance that football has given me.

"I would like to thank those people who have been by my side and supported me throughout this difficult time, particularly my wife, Karen, my parents and close family."

He added: "I would also like to extend my gratitude to my fellow football colleagues, particularly Sir Alex Ferguson, Gary Neville, Tommy Burns and Manchester United."

Casper, who had joined Reading from United, claimed damages against Carpenter and Cardiff, and the case was due to be heard at the High Court in Manchester later this month.

The issues surrounded his potential earnings, bonuses and promotional work had his playing career continued.

Casper, who was represented by the leading sports injury specialists, Beachcroft Wansborough solicitors, was also claiming damages for the loss of his pension, the costs of his care and treatment, and out-of-pocket expenses. If the case had gone to court, Casper would have called United boss Alex Ferguson and Gary Neville to give evidence about his ability as a player and his professionalism.

Casper's father, who was a star at Burnley during the 1970s, also had his playing career cut short by injury.