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The giant defender underwent surgery at Lincoln County Hospital on Monday after suffering a fractured eye socket and depressed fracture of the cheekbone following an accident last Thursday during a routine training game. Futcher had to have a titanium plate fitted.
Early indications suggested Futcher could be out for the season, but he revealed he hopes to return to the first team by March at the latest.
"I feel much better now I've had the operation, the surgeon is pleased with how it went and he's told me it could be healed in six weeks. I want to rest up for the next 10 days because I still feel pretty groggy. However then I will be able to do some running and bike work."
"I have to go back to see the surgeon in March, but if he gives me the all-clear I don't see any reason why I can't return to action straightaway."
Futcher suffered his appalling injury as the Imps practised corners ahead of last week's home match with Bristol Rovers. He clashed heads with a teammate and sustained his injury. It has only just been revealed that the other player involved was bustling striker Marcus Richardson.
"I went up for a header and, as I came back down, I crashed into the back of Marcus’ head," recalls Futcher. "I have never known pain like it. Blood was pouring from my nose, but when I touched my cheek there was nothing there.
"I'm gutted to be on the sidelines because I hate watching. But the main thing is to get back as quickly as possible and help the lads in what will hopefully be a promotion run-in."
The news will be a great boost to the Imps who will need Futchers ariel ability in both boxes for the crucial last two months of the season as the Imps push towards the play off spots.