The views of the Cobblers boss
Cobblers boss Aidy Boothroyd has confirmed that Alex Nicholls suffered a broken leg in the 2-0 win over Port Vale.
"Alex has gone straight into hospital for an operation," he said.
"He's got a compound fracture of his tibia and fibula, his family were all here today and they are up at the hospital with him now.
"We're obviously all absolutely gutted for him, the goal that he scored was a goalscorer's goal and I don't think John McCombe meant to do the damage that he did, in fact I know he didn't.
"John has apologised, he said he was just going for the ball and we accept that.
"It takes the edge off what was a fine victory, today was our day in terms of the result but all our thoughts now are certainly with Alex.
"I've been there myself, I broke a leg playing and although we'll lose his services for the rest of the season it's an opportunity for him to come back tougher and stronger.
"He's a terrific character and I've got no doubts he was well on the way to become one of the players of the season for us.
"Louis Moult is from Stoke so he will have really enjoyed getting a goal today, he took it really well and he's got a big chance now.
"Lewis Hornby is a very talented player and today he showed that he can play men's football.
"I thought we were strong from the start and overall I thought we responded and deserved what we got.
"I've got to have a look at the personnel we've got this week, Chris Hackett and John Johnson could both be back for Bradford which is a massive plus but we may need to bolster the squad in other positions and we need to add a senior player if we can.
"We are quite youthful at the moment and I always like to have a balance."