FULHAM TO SUPPORT COLEMAN

The Welsh stopper lost control of his Jaguar in slippery conditions and ploughed into a tree, resulting in fractures to his right tibia, fibula and ankle.

Fulham are insistent that the 30-year-old will make a full recovery and they will give him every possible assistance in reaching this goal.

Cottagers managing director Michael Fiddy said: "Chris is, as ever, in a composed state and, despite the great trauma he has been through, is showing great resilience.

"He is very grateful for the actions of all the emergency services, whose prompt actions have prevented what could have been an even worse outcome from this very unfortunate accident.

"Having seen the pictures and heard the description of the accident, all at the club are relieved that Chris is well and in a position to make a full recovery.

"The chairman (Mohamed Al Fayed) has assured Chris that all will be done by the club to look after him during this difficult time and we all wish him well for a swift recovery."

As well as a blow to Fulham`s promotion push, and their plans for the FA Cup clash with Manchester United at the weekend, it is a severe dent to Wales` World Cup hopes.

National assistant coach Mark Bowen said: "Obviously we are all most concerned about Chris' health, that comes first. But in football terms it's a savage blow for Wales.

"Mark Hughes (Wales manager) frequently says that we need all our best players fit and available and then we have a chance.

"We have such a small pool to choose from, so when you lose someone like Chris it's very serious for us.

"He has been magnificent for his country and is a real influence on the rest of the squad and in the dressing room.

"Maybe it's a big blow for Fulham but they will surely get promotion without him. For Wales it's a loss we just can't afford."