RISING star Billy Carrington suffered concussion after a clash of heads during Rossendale's epic FA Cup replay against Barrow on Tuesday.

And the 17-year-old feared he had broken his leg after he and Steve Bird collided.

Bird was rushed to hospital with a compound fracture of the tibia and will undergo surgery today.

Carrington continued despite the clash - and after being knocked out in a collision later in the game - and helped Dale to a 3-3 draw after extra time. They crashed out 5-3 on penalties.

He came round -- with a slightly sore head -- yesterday morning to the news that Premiership scouts had been eyeing up his performance.

"I got told there were scouts there but I'm not bothered, if they want to talk to me then great, but I am happy at Rossendale," he said.

"When me and Steve Bird clashed they thought I had broken my leg because I couldn't move my toes and I had to be brought round with smelling salts later on when I went over the defender and landed on my head."

Manager Jim McCluskie, who has signed former Congleton shot-stopper Mike Allison, may rest Carrington for Saturday's home against North Ferriby United.

"Billy got a few bangs and bruises," he said.

"I'm sure a few of the scouts were looking at him and he has done himself no harm whatsoever.

"But you have got to bring young players along properly."

Mark Andrews, whose injury it was that gave Carrington his chance, hopes to be back in training in just four weeks.

The 23-year-old suffered an horrific injury against Witton Albion a fortnight ago when his leg was gashed in a challenge and needed 28 stitches.

"I had the stitches out on Monday and I've been told there is no ligament damage which is a relief," he said.