Carlisle United striker Luke Armstrong picked up a horrific facial injury during his side's opening match of the National League season.
The Cumbrians, managed by Mark Hughes, secured a 2-0 victory over Woking in their first match since relegation from League Two last season.
However, their momentum suffered a setback after Armstrong was left with a serious facial injury that required him to be substituted.
After scoring to put his team ahead in the 57th minute, the forward - back on loan from Motherwell - was involved in a scramble inside the box as he went for a rebound.
In the process, he collided headfirst with Woking goalkeeper Craig Ross, whose studs struck Armstrong.
Ross escaped punishment as he made contact with the ball before Armstrong, preventing his team from conceding further.
Armstrong was substituted for Georgie Kelly, and just 10 minutes later, Carlisle extended their lead when Ethan Robson scored from a well-taken free-kick.
Carlisle took to Instagram to reveal the extent of Armstrong's injury which showed a large cut down the right side of his face.
The club posted: 'Battered and bruised, here’s our Player of the Match from today’s win over Woking FC. Well played, Luke!'
It remains unclear if Armstrong will be ready to feature for Carlisle in their clash against Boreham Wood on Saturday.
The 29-year-old made his Carlisle debut in January 2024 after joining from Harrogate Town and has since featured 46 times, scoring seven goals and providing three assists.
He spent the latter half of last season with Scottish Premiership side motherwell - but has returned to Colchester, who are aiming to return to the Football League at the first attempt.