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A night to remember

Taking part in the Opening Ceremony of the Commonwealth Games was one of the proudest moments of my life.

As you know I was asked to be the official attach? for the Bermudian squad and was involved in the parade of nations at the City of Manchester Stadium on Thursday night.

Although I did not carry the flag because this, quite rightly, was a night for those athletes taking part, I did walk at the head of the delegation with flag bearer and Island cyclist Kris Hedges.

On the way to the stadium that night I found myself getting really excited, almost the same as I am when I am heading to Maine Road for a game, and I am not even involved in the Games properly!

I fractured my little toe on my left foot earlier that day during a practice match when a Huddersfield player landed on my foot after going up for a header.

But I didn't really feel any pain or discomfort because of the adrenaline rush that I experienced walking around in front of 30-odd thousands spectators.

While we were parading there were people shouting out my name and I could hear the odd cry of 'Feed the Goat' although this was drowned out by the magnificent cheering and clapping as the other 71 nations took to the track.

As I said, it made me very proud as a Bermudian and the only instances in the past that really compare are when I have played for my country or have played in a big televised match for City. It certainly was a night to remember.

As far as my injury goes it is not the sort for which you can receive treatment. I just have to wait for the fracture to heal.

They said to me it might be six to eight weeks, which will obviously mean I will miss the start of the Premiership season.

I thought I might have been more upset but the fact that we still have a few weeks to go of pre-season before the opening match with Leeds United means that the amount of time I am out of action when the serious business starts will be that much less.

In the meantime I am trying to keep myself fit as best I can with cardiovascular training, which includes swimming, and with going on the treadmill when my foot will allow.

Hopefully, if all goes to plan I should be putting my boots back on sooner rather than later.