Herne Bay captain Laurence Harvey is due to return to hospital to find out if he’ll need surgery on a broken cheekbone.

The defender sustained the injury inside the first 15 minutes of their 3-1 home defeat to promotion-chasing Enfield after a collision with an away player.

Harvey was stretchered off at Winch's Field after lengthy treatment before being taken to hospital by an ambulance.

A club statement on Monday night read: “Laurence had a CT scan upon his arrival at the hospital which, thankfully, cleared him from having suffered a brain injury.

“However, it was revealed that he has a fracture of his cheekbone.

“We are happy to learn that he is home with his family now but will be required to return for a check-up in seven days’ time, once the swelling has reduced to see if the injury requires surgery or not.

“Laurence has been an absolute warrior for the Bay this season and for many years before that, with several special performances and goals encapsulating just why he is such a firm fans’ favourite.

“Everyone associated with Herne Bay FC would like to wish Laurence the speediest recovery possible and, needless to say, we look forward to seeing him back in Bay blue as soon as possible.

“Get well soon, Loz x.”

Relegation-threatened Bay also have revealed they are facing an FA charge after a tennis ball was thrown in the direction of Enfield goalkeeper Nathan McDonald in the latter stages of the match.

“We wholeheartedly condemn the action of that individual and ask that anyone who might be able to identify them please step forward and provide any information they can on the incident to a Herne Bay FC club official,” a separate statement read.

“We would also like to take this opportunity to apologise to Enfield Town FC, including their goalkeeper Nathan McDonald, for the utterly stupid actions of one individual.

“Despite how passionate the sport of football can be at times, in no way shape or form should visiting fans, officials or players be subject to having things thrown at them.

“Because of this incident, the club is now facing an FA charge when time and energy could be better spent elsewhere.

“The club will now be investigating the matter and will look to identify and punish the individual in question.”

Herne Bay lost to Enfield despite striker Marcel Barrington’s first-half penalty.

They are fourth-bottom, two points from Kingstonian and safety, ahead of this Saturday’s trip to Hastings.